Incident at Hong Kong International Airport
A 38-year-old British passenger exhibiting signs of intoxication and disruptive behavior was removed from Cathay Pacific flight CX255 at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). The incident led to a nearly two-hour delay for the flight bound for London Heathrow (LHR).
The individual, described as uncooperative and incoherent, refused to disembark voluntarily, prompting officials to escort him off the aircraft. He was subsequently taken to North Lantau Hospital for evaluation.
Flight Delay Details
Cathay Pacific confirmed that the departure of flight CX255, initially scheduled for 11:15 PM on Thursday, was affected due to the passenger’s behavior. The captain opted to remove the passenger to maintain the safety of passengers and crew, aligning with standard aviation safety protocols.
The flight eventually took off at 12:46 AM on Friday, based on the official schedule, though flight tracking data recorded a departure at 1:05 AM. The aircraft successfully arrived at London Heathrow at 7:27 AM local time.
Official Apology and Safety Priorities
According to the Bangkok Post, Cathay Pacific issued an apology for the delay, emphasizing that safety considerations were central to the decision. The airline repeatedly asserts that the well-being of passengers and crew is their top priority.
Police Involvement and Hospitalization
Hong Kong police confirmed their arrival on the aircraft at 11:48 PM following reports of the disruptive passenger. The man was reportedly intoxicated and “babbling,” resisting multiple instructions to leave the aircraft independently. Officers escorted him off and arranged his transfer to North Lantau Hospital.
Previous Incidents Involving Unruly Passengers
Cathay Pacific has encountered similar situations with disruptive passengers. In September last year, a US-bound flight was diverted to Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) due to a passenger suspected of alcohol-induced harassment of cabin crew. Additionally, two passengers were permanently banned after harassing a fellow traveler on a flight to London.
Airline Policies and Legal Consequences
Under Cathay Pacific’s carriage conditions, passengers exhibiting disorderly, unsafe, or aggressive behavior may face restraint, removal, or future flight bans. Hong Kong’s aviation ordinance classifies actions that threaten onboard safety as offenses, with penalties up to HK$50,000 (approximately $6,412) and imprisonment for up to 5 years.
