A MAJOR airline based in the district has signalled its support for a potential crackdown on drunken behaviour by travellers.

The Home Office launched a review on Thursday into whether to extend high street licensing laws into departure halls, which would mean no alcohol before 10am.

Under current rules, drink sales beyond security gates at international airports in England and Wales are not regulated by these laws.

Critics claim this has contributed to an increase in drunken behaviour by some travellers. The Government is asking the public for views on whether limiting licensing hours could help tackle the problem in a three month call for evidence.

This comes after a House of Lords Select Committee recommended that airside outlets should comply with the same licensing rules as elsewhere. Yeadon-based Jet2.com said it welcomes the announcement.

Phil Ward, Managing Director of Jet2.com said: “The issue of disruptive passenger behaviour caused by drinking too much alcohol is an unacceptable issue which continues to affect airports, airlines, our crew and our customers.

“Although our crew and colleagues are highly-trained and do a fantastic job in sometimes difficult circumstances, it is unfair and unrealistic to expect them to be left to manage the consequences of excessive alcohol consumption, which range from abusive behaviour through to actual physical violence. At the same time, our customers travelling on their well-earned holidays should not be subjected to such behaviour on these occasions."

However, he said all industry data shows incidents of disruptive behaviour caused by excessive drinking "show no sign of reducing".

"The figures show that the time to put rigorous measures in place is long overdue," he said.

“There is no reason why alcohol sold in airports should not be done to the same rules and standards that apply on the high street, and the introduction of sealed bags for alcohol items purchased in Duty Free provides a simple practical solution to prevent the illicit consumption of duty free alcohol on board the aircraft."

Leeds Bradford Airport said disruptive behaviour, whether alcohol-related or not, is "absolutely not tolerated", but said those related to alcohol at the airport are "very rare".

A spokesperson said: “The airport is a signatory to the UK Aviation Industry Code of Practice on Disruptive Passengers and continues to work closely with airlines, airport retailers, bars and restaurants and the police to tackle any form of disruptive behaviour.

“We believe that the actions of a very small minority should not restrict consumer choice for the overwhelming majority of our passengers who act responsibly at all stages of the passenger journey.”