The recent spate of unruly passenger behavior aboard airline flights has been making headlines, with the latest incident happening on a Southwest Airlines flight from Dallas to Phoenix. On Monday, two passengers got into a physical altercation onboard the plane that was captured in a viral video and quickly spread on social media.
According to witness accounts, the altercation began when the man in the tan blazer approached the heavily tattooed man and asked for his address. The tattooed man then gave the man in the blazer his address, and he proceeded to punch the tattooed man several times before anyone started recording. Other passengers then jumped in to break it up before both men were taken off the plane.
The incident was met with a swift response from Southwest Airlines, who acknowledged the incident and commended the Flight Crews for their de-escalation efforts. The man who was punched did not want to leave the plane but ground personnel insisted he exit to get treatment.
While it is unclear what provoked the altercation, the incident is yet another example of the dangers of unruly passenger behavior. Airlines have been attempting to take a more proactive stance on passenger safety, with Southwest Airlines recently introducing a new policy that gives Flight Crews more power to deny boarding or remove passengers for disruptive behavior.
It is also important for passengers to remember that violence is never an acceptable solution, and that those who witness such behavior should alert the flight crew immediately. Such incidents can be dangerous and traumatic for the other passengers onboard, and it is essential that airlines and passengers alike work together to make flying a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.