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FlySafair passenger may be fined R100,000 after chaotic flight diversion

Published

4 months ago

May 20, 2025

taryn

A man who caused a mid-air disturbance on a FlySafair flight from Johannesburg to Cape Town could be slapped with a hefty R100,000 bill after the aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing in Bloemfontein.

The incident unfolded on May 10 aboard flight FA600 when the passenger reportedly became aggressive, prompting immediate action from the crew and fellow passengers. FlySafair confirmed that the decision to divert the flight was made to prioritise the safety and comfort of everyone on board.

Added to FlySafair’s no-fly list

According to the airline, the disruptive individual has since been placed on its internal no-fly list and could be held financially responsible for the diversion.

“In accordance with the airline’s terms and conditions, [the individual] will be issued an invoice covering the full costs of the diversion, including fuel and landing fees, which could total up to R100,000,” FlySafair said in a statement.

Police officers met the flight upon landing in Bloemfontein and escorted the man from the aircraft.

Triggered by incorrect change for water

Passenger Kundai Murapa, who captured footage of the outburst, described the situation as both bizarre and unsettling. He claimed the man became enraged after receiving incorrect change for a bottle of water and then started yelling that he needed to be in Durban, despite being on a Cape Town-bound flight.

@kundaimurapa

Fly Safair in-flight drama. South Africa is a comedy???

♬ original sound – kundaimurapa

Murapa praised the quick response of two passengers with security experience who helped restrain the man. “The captain made the right call to land the plane in Bloemfontein. One of the best flights of my life—super entertaining but very inconvenient,” he said.

No charges laid despite incident

Police spokesperson Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli confirmed that airport officers were called to handle the matter. However, the man was not charged, as no formal complaint was filed.

“The passenger was removed from the aircraft and taken to the airport police station. No complaint was made and no case opened. The individual was released,” said Kareli.

FlySafair thanked the crew and passengers involved for their professionalism and reaffirmed its strict stance on safety and disruptive behaviour.