Holiday-makers could be banned from sinking booze round-the-clock at airports under radical new Government plans.
Licensing laws that govern the high street will apply to “airside” watering holes and restaurants too meaning that alcohol cannot be served until 10am.
Due to the dramatic rise in alcohol-related mid-air disturbances airlines have been demanding a change in airport rules around drinking.
The new laws will affect stag dos, hen parties and anyone who wants to have a drink before an early morning flight.
Currently the Wetherspoons at Gatwick opens at 3am.
The Civil Aviation Authority earlier this summer claimed there were 417 reports of serious disruption on flights in 2017, up from 415 in 2016 and just 195 in 2015.
Home Office Minister Victoria Atkins said that “disruptive or drunk behaviour” in the skies was “unacceptable”.
However pub owners said that people who don’t abuse alcohol before a flight are being unfairly punished.
Ryanair has called for more restrictions on alcohol by proposing a two drink limit per passenger and a ban on the sale of booze before 10am.
Currently if a passenger or party on a flight are deemed too drunk after boarding, crew can make the decision to not sell any alcohol on that flight.
However Government sources say that “no decision has been made yet” and UK Hospitality chief Kate Nicholls added: “New legislation would be unnecessary and unfair and demonise pub goers who deserve the right to enjoy a drink when going on holiday.
“The vast majority do so responsibly.”
In a statement Ms Atkins said: “Most UK air passengers behave responsibly when flying, but any disruptive or drunk behaviour is entirely unacceptable.
“This Government is committed to ensuring that the travelling environment for airline passengers remains safe and enjoyable.”
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