France is preparing to overhaul how it deals with disruptive behaviour on commercial flights, with significantly harsher sanctions set to take effect in November 2025. The changes apply to anyone flying on French-licensed carriers, regardless of where the journey begins.
Under the new framework, monetary penalties will increase sharply for travellers who disregard inflight safety instructions, interfere with cabin procedures, or use devices that are not allowed during critical phases of flight. Authorities will be able to issue fines reaching €10,000, while repeat offenders could face penalties as high as €20,000.
Officials are also introducing a new enforcement tool: a centralised database that will gather reports from airlines about problematic passengers. The system is designed to help regulators cross-check incidents, monitor individuals with multiple infractions, and apply sanctions consistently across carriers.
The push for stricter controls comes amid rising concern across Europe about unruly conduct on aircraft. Regional aviation bodies document anywhere from 200 to 500 incidents each month. In 2024 alone, one case of disruptive behaviour was recorded for roughly every 395 flights, prompting calls for stronger deterrents.
In particularly serious situations, France will have the authority to bar passengers from boarding any aircraft operated by its licensed airlines for up to four years. These flight bans will apply broadly, covering everything from major operators like Air France to low-cost regional carriers.
Criminal consequences remain untouched for the gravest violations. Physical aggression, actions that endanger others, or similar offences can still lead to prison sentences of up to five years and fines of €75,000.
French officials say the forthcoming measures reflect growing pressure to improve safety and reduce risks for cabin crews and passengers, particularly on busy European routes.
