Jet2 bans two passengers for life after mid‑air brawl on Antalya–Manchester flight
Two passengers have been handed lifetime bans by Jet2 after a violent altercation erupted mid‑air on a flight from Antalya to Manchester, forcing an emergency landing in Brussels just after 5: 00 PM ET on Feb. 12. Police removed the pair and an investigation into intentional assault and battery is underway.
Fight forces diversion; passengers removed in Brussels
The Jet2 service, operating as flight LS896, was about three hours into a roughly five‑hour journey when crew intervened in a confrontation that escalated into a brawl in the cabin aisle. Passengers captured dramatic footage of the incident showing multiple people crowding into the aisle while flight attendants and fellow travellers tried to separate those involved.
The aircraft diverted to Brussels and landed shortly after 5: 00 PM ET on Feb. 12. Belgian police boarded and removed two men from the flight. Belgian authorities said the pair were briefly deprived of their freedom administratively because they were still intoxicated; identities, photos and fingerprints were taken and an official report has been filed. The public prosecutor's office has opened an investigation and will determine appropriate legal action.
Airline response and wider concerns for flights Antalya
The airline described the behaviour as "appalling" and confirmed the two men will be banned from flying with the carrier for life. The company added it will vigorously pursue recovery of the additional costs incurred by the diversion. The carrier framed the decision as part of a zero‑tolerance policy toward disruptive behaviour, stressing its commitment to family‑friendly services and the safety of crew and customers.
The episode has added to concerns about flights antalya to the UK this season, coming amid a broader spike in incidents of so‑called air rage since the pandemic. Industry observers and safety experts point to cramped cabins, higher passenger volumes and alcohol consumption as factors that can quickly inflame disputes. In past cases the airline has taken tough financial and travel bans against passengers whose conduct forced diversions, including billing travellers substantial sums to cover disruption costs.
Safety, legality and the passenger experience
Cabin crew repeatedly appeal for calm in violent incidents, but attempts at de‑escalation can be complicated by multiple people getting involved. Witnesses on the recent flight were heard urging combatants to stop as a flight attendant stood on a seat and pleaded for order. Glasses were reported to have been snatched during the scuffle and at one point a man was held in a headlock.
With an investigation ongoing, the legal status of the two men will be determined by Belgian authorities. Meanwhile, the flight continued on to Manchester after the removals. The airline’s move to impose lifetime bans and to seek compensation for diversion costs underscores a tougher industry stance toward disruptive passengers—aimed at deterring behaviour that endangers crew, fellow travellers and scheduled operations.
Passengers are being reminded to follow crew instructions, to moderate alcohol consumption while travelling and to report concerns early so incidents can be managed before they escalate. Regulators and airlines continue to review policies and penalties designed to reduce the risk of mid‑air violence and protect safety on board.
