Tim Martin, the founder of JD Wetherspoons, has publicly criticised Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary's proposal to ban alcohol sales at UK airports during early morning hours. Martin argued that such a measure would be impractical and excessive, potentially requiring breathalyser tests for passengers.
The Debate Over Airport Alcohol Sales
Michael O'Leary, the outspoken head of Ryanair, recently claimed that disruptive behaviour on flights is often fuelled by alcohol consumed at airport bars before boarding. He stated that nearly one flight per day is diverted due to such incidents. O'Leary proposed a ban on serving alcohol at airport bars in the early hours, followed by a two-drink limit for passengers.
However, Tim Martin, who founded the pub chain in 1979, dismissed the proposal as an overreaction. 'A two-drink limit would be extraordinarily difficult to implement, short of breathalysing passengers,' Martin said. He emphasised that many problems stem from incoming flights rather than departing passengers, and called for a balanced approach to maintaining good behaviour at airports and on planes.
Current Regulations and Incidents
UK law prohibits being drunk on an aircraft, with penalties including fines up to £5,000 and two years in prison. However, alcohol can still be served on flights, including Ryanair's. Airside bars are exempt from standard licensing hours, allowing early morning sales.
Recent incidents highlight the issue. A man was jailed for abusive behaviour on a Ryanair flight from Poland to Bristol. In another case, two passengers were fined and given suspended sentences for causing disruption on a flight from Stansted to Ibiza, which was diverted to Toulouse.
Martin also noted that Wetherspoons' pubs in airports are 'highly supervised' with strict policies to prevent excessive drinking. He added that it has 'never been suggested' that his customers cause problems on flights.
O'Leary's Stance
Speaking earlier this week, O'Leary questioned the need for alcohol sales at 5 or 6 AM, stating, 'Who needs to be drinking beer at that time?' He called for a ban on sales outside standard licensing hours.
The debate continues as both sides seek solutions to reduce alcohol-related disruptions while balancing passenger freedoms and business interests.
