Airport Security Message

This month Crimecall went on location to Dublin airport where we spoke to Inspector Luke Lacey and his Garda colleagues, about policing one of Ireland’s busiest airports and the challenges that they encounter. One issue in recent years, is that of disruptive passenger behaviour, which has been on the increase worldwide. The Crimecall team interviewed staff from the retail and airline sector as well Gardaí based at Dublin airport – all of whom contributed by sharing their experiences of working at the airport.

Superintendent Darren McCarthy who has overall responsibility for the policing of the Airport came into studio when he explained how over the past year An Garda Síochána has been working with the Irish Aviation Authority, Dublin Airport Authority as well as national and international airlines to combat disruptive and dangerous behaviour. This collaboration has culminated in the formulation of the Joint Declaration on Unruly Passengers Behaviour in Airports and on Aircraft.

Superintendent Mc Carthy explained – “We treat offences the same as if they are committed anywhere else with the same penalties applying – be it a fine or imprisonment.  That is what we have seen” and we’re committed to ensuring that the airport is a safe place for passengers and staff alike”. 

He explained the consequences for someone who engages in this type of disruptive behaviour, citing that the key point is that the airport should be treated like any other public space. “If you wouldn’t do it on the street outside then it’s not appropriate inside the airport or indeed on an airplane.  It can be a frightening experience to witness one of these incidents, especially on board a plane at over 30,000 feet.” 

“It can mean delayed flights, missed connections or even a very negative experience of flying which endangers other passengers and airline crew. There is no excuse for anti-social or disruptive behaviour”.  

In terms of other offences committed inside the airport, Darren stated that all areas of the airport are monitored and extensively covered by CCTV. “Take for example thefts from the duty free area”. “We work closely with the airport retailers to prevent these incidents and to identify passengers who engage in theft”. “Therefore, it’s important for people to know that all incidents are fully investigated with a view to bringing a prosecution.” 

“Our priority is to keep passengers and staff safe, both on the ground and in the air”. “Passengers have a key role to play in this so what I’d say is to avoid excessive alcohol or drug use because it is a factor in almost all the disruptive incidents that we attend”.

“So keep things in moderation because if you commit an offence you will be arrested and charged/prosecuted? And of course, the airline involved can ban you from flying”. “Another consideration is that flights have been diverted because of this type of behaviour and you could find yourself landing in a foreign country where you’ll be arrested by local police and subject to their courts”. “Finally for any passengers who witness disruptive behaviour, avoid engaging with that person - Instead, approach staff for help – they are trained to deal with these situations and know how to request police assistance if necessary”.