Gatwick police and publicans partner to tackle drunkenness at airport
Sussex Police said pubs at the airport have implemented extra measures to ensure alcohol is not sold to passengers who are becoming intoxicated and police patrols now visit outlets and provide advice to passengers about the effects of drinking alcohol and flying.
Some airlines have also sent out information on alcohol consumption and flying, prior to passengers arriving at the airport.
Targeted patrols
Jean Irving, Sussex Police's licensing and public safety manager, said: "Since we have begun working with our partners the problem has reduced considerably.
"Passengers are advised that if they consume too much alcohol they may not be allowed to travel. Airport staff are encouraged to check the demeanour of passengers and to ask for assistance if they have any concerns that people are intoxicated. Officers also undertake targeted patrols of a number of flights and offer support to airport staff and passengers as required.
She added: "At the root of it all has been working in partnership with airport staff and businesses to raise awareness around alcohol consumption and flying, with the focus very much being on responsible drinking. The airport is very much a community environment, and the significant reduction in alcohol related incidents goes to show what can be achieved through strong partnership working."
The Daily Telegraph reported that alcohol-fuelled air rage incidents on planes had halved since the measures have been introduced, but a spokesman for Sussex Police said there was no evidence basis for this figure.
The force will be discussing how their measures have led to a reduction in alcohol-related incidents at the Dispax World 2014 conference on ‘disruptive airline passenger behaviour’ on 10 and 11 June in London.
