Man charged after causing disturbance on flight because he wanted a cigarette

In what Hamilton Police call a “highly uncommon incident,” officers arrested a man who allegedly caused a disturbance mid-flight because he wanted to have a cigarette.

On Thursday, February 15, shortly after 3 pm, Hamilton Police arrested a 54-year-old man upon the arrival of an Air Transat flight from Cayo Coco, Cuba, at John C Munro International Airport.

Wow 😮. It’s like no one has ever mentioned you can’t smoke on planes!

— Shawn Fitzpatrick (@ShawnFitzzz) February 16, 2024

According to police, the disturbance stemmed from “alcohol-related issues” and a “desire for a cigarette in flight,” prompting multiple passengers to intervene and assist the on-flight staff.

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“The male continued to make threats to flight staff, creating a disruptive and unsafe environment for staff and passengers,” police said in a press release.

Should be on a permanent no fly list.

— lorazafan (@sportsnmusic17) February 16, 2024

Despite several crew members and passengers intervening, no one on the flight required medical attention upon landing.

Reason number one to quit smoking

— Pointoverpressure (@hockeynpolitics) February 16, 2024

The man now faces charges of common nuisance endangering life, causing a disturbance, and assault in an aircraft in flight. The 54-year-old appeared in court for a bail hearing on Friday morning.