Ryanair Faro–Dublin flight diverts to Cork after disruptive passenger removed

Ryanair flight FR7031 operating from Faro to Dublin (Boeing 737 MAX 8-200 reg. EI-HGN) was forced to divert to Cork Airport on Monday afternoon after the crew reported concerns about a passenger’s behaviour on board. The aircraft landed in Cork at 13:04, where Gardaí were already waiting on the tarmac and removed a man in his 30s from the flight.

The diversion occurred less than an hour before the scheduled arrival in Dublin. Gardaí confirmed the passenger was arrested under the Air Navigation and Transport Act 2022 and is currently being detained at a Garda station in County Cork, with investigations ongoing.

The aircraft remained on the ground in Cork for around 90 minutes before resuming its journey to Dublin at approximately 14:30, limiting wider disruption for passengers. Such incidents can sometimes lead to significant operational consequences, including crew duty-time exceedances and overnight delays.

Ryanair has recently introduced a €500 minimum fine for disruptive behaviour, alongside pursuing civil claims in more serious cases to recover costs linked to diversions. While the financial impact of this incident is expected to be limited, the airline may still seek to recoup expenses associated with the unscheduled landing.

Ryanair sent the following statement to Aviation24.be:

“Crew on this flight from Faro to Dublin (15 Dec) called ahead for police assistance after an individual passenger became disruptive onboard. The aircraft was met by police, and this passenger was removed. 

Ryanair has a strict zero tolerance policy towards passenger misconduct and will continue to take decisive action to combat unruly passenger behaviour, ensuring that all passengers and crew travel in a respectful and stress-free environment, without unnecessary disruption.”