News / Fine for behaving aggressively at airport
A MAN from Inverness who behaved aggressively towards staff in Sumburgh Airport’s departure lounge after having his first drink in a year has been fined £400.
Christopher Parker, of Morvich Way, previously admitted shouting, swearing and making threats to staff at the airport on 31 July last year.
At Lerwick Sheriff Court on Wednesday, procurator fiscal Duncan Mackenzie said the 37 year old became aggressive and caused an “unpleasant” environment for fellow travellers.
Defence agent Tommy Allan said his client was a type one diabetic and hadn’t had a drink in one year.
The groundworks company director had just finished a job and was in the company of others when he had some alcohol to calm his nerves before flying.
The drink altered his behaviour, Allan said, which ultimately saw Parker being denied a place on the plane.
However, Parker apologised to the staff member the next day when he got another flight.
Sheriff Philip Mann said the man’s behaviour was “totally unacceptable” and while there was an explanation, there was no excuse.
Referring to United Airlines’ criticism for heavy-handedly removing a passenger from an overbooked flight recently, the sheriff said it was lucky that Parker had been dealing with Loganair and not an American airline.
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