FAA now has zero-tolerance policy for unruly airline passengers
The Federal Aviation Administration has introduced a new zero-tolerance policy for unruly airline passengers in the United States.
In a statement, the FAA says passengers who interfere with, threaten or physically assault airline crew members or other passengers will face stiff penalties, including fines of up to $35,000 and imprisonment, if they are convicted.
The FAA's policy comes after the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.
"We have zero tolerance for threatening or violent behavior by passengers, and will take the strongest possible enforcement action against any passenger who engages in it," said Stephen Dickson, the FAA's administrator.
The stricter policy also makes the wearing of face masks mandatory on all flights.
The FAA says the new policy will extend through the end of March.