Ryanair bans duty-free alcohol on UK to Ibiza flights

Ryanair said the 'comfort and safety of our customers and crew' was its top priority. Credit: PA

Budget airline Ryanair has banned passengers from taking duty-free alcohol on flights from the UK to Ibiza.

The no frills airline said the move was part of a bid to improve the "comfort and safety" of passengers on the route.

Travellers will either have to stow alcohol in the hold free of charge or throw it away before flying.

The airline also warned boarding gates will be monitored and anyone acting anti-socially or trying to hide alcohol will not be allowed to board.

In May, six "drunk" Brits were arrested in Spain because of their behaviour on a Ryanair flight, while this month five British men were escorted off an EasyJet plane travelling from Bristol to Ibiza.

Ryanair has previously banned alcohol on flights from Glasgow to Ibiza.

Travellers will either have to stow alcohol in the hold free of charge or throw it away. Credit: Reuters

A message from Ryanair to passengers flying to Ibiza said: "Customers will not be allowed to carry alcohol on board and all cabin baggage will be searched at the boarding gates.

"Any alcohol purchased in the airport shops or elsewhere must be packed carefully in a suitable item of cabin baggage, which will be tagged at the gate and then placed in the aircraft hold free of charge.

"If the bag is unsuitable for placing in the hold then customers will be required to dispose of the alcohol in the bins provided.

"Boarding gates will be carefully monitored and customers showing any signs of anti-social behaviour or attempting to conceal alcohol will de denied travel without refund or compensation."

Ryanair said it took the decision after consulting with customers and airports.

Passengers will still be able to buy alcohol during flights.