Teenager Fined €1,500 for Disruptive Behavior on Tenerife-Bound Flight
A 19-year-old man has been fined €1,500 for causing a disturbance on a Tenerife-bound flight that was forced to divert to Shannon airport last June. The incident resulted in significant costs for the airline and inconvenience for fellow passengers.
Mr. Dalziel, who travelled from Scotland for the court hearing, pleaded guilty to two charges of breaching the peace contrary to Section 20 of the Air Navigation Act. These charges stemmed from his behaviour on board jet2.com flight L3155, where he engaged in threatening, abusive, or insulting behaviour.
Sgt Frank O’Grady informed the court that three assault charges against Mr. Dalziel related to the flight were withdrawn by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
The court heard that the flight, departing Glasgow at 3:30 pm on June 12th, diverted to Shannon airport in the late afternoon following the incident. Sgt. O’Grady stated that Mr. Dalziel became abusive, aggressive, and assaulted two individuals on board. His behaviour necessitated restraint, and he continued to be aggressive upon arrival at the Garda station.
While Sgt. O’Grady highlighted the “substantial” costs incurred by the airline due to the diversion, he did not disclose a specific figure. Mr. Fitzpatrick, representing Mr. Dalziel, requested Judge Gabbett not record a conviction, offering instead a financial contribution to the court’s Poor Box.
Mr. Fitzpatrick emphasized that Mr. Dalziel, who secured bail last June after spending a night in Limerick prison, deeply regretted his actions. He described the incident as a “sobering experience” for the teenager, whose intended Tenerife trip was meant to be his first holiday abroad with friends. Mr. Fitzpatrick also highlighted Mr. Dalziel’s positive work history and the support of his grandfather, who was shocked by his grandson’s behaviour.
Judge Gabbett, after reviewing references for Mr. Dalziel, acknowledged his good work trajectory but ultimately rejected the plea not to record a conviction. He stressed the seriousness of the charges, emphasizing the significant costs incurred by the airline and the inconvenience caused to passengers. Judge Gabbett imposed a fine of €1,000 for one charge and €500 for the second, totaling €1,500.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible behaviour on flights. Disruptive behaviour can have serious consequences, including hefty fines and potential legal repercussions.