The National Civil Aviation Agency of Brazil has unanimously approved stricter regulations to ban unruly passengers from flying for up to a year, with fines and designations depending on the severity of the offenses.
The National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) of Brazil has made a significant move to enhance safety and discipline on domestic flights by unanimously approving stricter regulations against unruly passengers. The revised rules classify offenses into three categories: minor, serious, and very serious. Very serious offenses include physical assaults or sexual harassment onboard, and attempts to control the aircraft, which carry severe penalties, including hefty fines and potential criminal charges.
Under the new regulations, serious offenses will result in a fine of R$ 17,500, while those classified as very serious will lead to not only the fine but also a placement on a 'no fly list' for up to 12 months, restricting the individual from purchasing or boarding any domestic flights with any airline. Additionally, offenders might be required to pay for any damages they cause to the aircraft or other passengers, and their existing flight tickets will be refunded if they are penalized under these new rules.
The implementation of this legislation is slated to occur six months after its publication in the Official Gazette and aims to deter disruptive behavior, thereby enforcing a safer flying environment for passengers and crew alike. This development represents a decisive step by Brazilian authorities to address growing concerns over passenger misconduct in aviation and to ensure that the rights of all travelers are protected from potential threats posed by unruly behavior.
