Introducing the Licensing Act airside would be an unwieldy step that would unfairly penalise businesses and customers without effectively tackling disruptive passengers, according to UKHospitality.
The trade association has submitted its response to ‘Aviation 2050: The future of UK aviation’ consultation, arguing against the introduction of the Licensing Act and encouraging the Government to better support voluntary schemes.
UKHospitality Chief Executive Kate Nicholls said, “The Licensing Act is a complex piece of legislation that touches upon a wide range of issues and obligations for both licensing authorities and venues. Its remit is much wider than just dealing with disruptive customers. If the issue is tackling anti-social behaviour, as the current focus very much indicates, then there are other avenues open.
“The existing UK Aviation Industry Code of Practice on Disruptive Passengers already places a responsibility on stakeholders along the passenger journey, including retailers, to pre-empt disruptive behaviour and act accordingly. UKHospitality has long been a signatory to it and it has helped to curb excessive drinking.
'In many cases, airside venues have already taken the proactive step of pushing industry-led schemes, such as Best Bar None, to tackle the issue, by ending the sale of things like shots or multi-pint jugs and bringing together businesses to work proactively.'
Nicholls concluded, “Introducing the Licensing Act airside would not only be a logistical headache, it would penalise businesses and well-behaved customers without necessarily tackling the issue.”
