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United States Department of Transportation United States Department of Transportation

Zero Tolerance for Unruly and Dangerous Behavior Toolkit

The FAA has seen a disturbing number of incidents where airline passengers have disrupted flights with threatening or violent behavior.

On January 13, 2021, Former FAA Administrator Steve Dickson signed an order directing a stricter legal enforcement policy against unruly airline passengers in the wake of recent, troubling incidents.

Historically, the agency has addressed unruly-passenger incidents using a variety of methods ranging from warnings and counseling to civil penalties. Under the new zero tolerance policy, FAA will not address these cases with warnings or counseling. The agency will pursue legal enforcement action against any passenger who assaults, threatens, intimidates, or interferes with airline crew members.

In an effort to promote safe and responsible passenger behavior and bring awareness to the zero tolerance policy, FAA encourages the widest dissemination of the following digital products.

FAA Administrator Message on Zero Tolerance Policy

FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker reiterates that the FAA has zero tolerance for unruly passenger behavior. Dangerous passengers put everyone at risk. Threatening or violent behavior can distract and disrupt crewmembers from their primary responsibility – to ensure the safety of all passengers. If you disrupt a flight, you risk not only substantial fines from the FAA, but also federal criminal prosecution and jail time.

Last updated: Wednesday, September 25, 2024