JD Wetherspoon chairman Tim Martin has clashed with Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary over proposals to restrict alcohol sales at airports during early morning hours. Martin dismissed the idea as a 'Big Brother' approach that could lead to breathalysing passengers.
O'Leary's Call for Restrictions
Michael O'Leary had urged airports to ban passengers from drinking pints before early morning flights, citing frequent flight diversions due to unruly behavior from intoxicated travelers. He questioned the need for alcohol consumption at five or six o'clock in the morning and accused airports of profiteering from disorderly conduct.
Wetherspoon's Response
Tim Martin argued that enforcing a two-drink limit would be extremely challenging without breathalysing passengers. He emphasized that Wetherspoon's airport pubs generate two-thirds of their turnover from food, soft drinks, tea, and coffee. Martin also noted that many problems stem from incoming flights, not just departing passengers.
Wetherspoon further contended that restrictions would merely push travelers to buy alcohol from off-licences or supermarkets before reaching the terminal. The pub chain maintains that a significant proportion of alcoholic drinks purchased are accompanied by a meal.
Political Reaction
Shadow transport secretary Richard Holden described the proposals as 'slightly draconian' and highlighted the British tradition of having a pint at 6am while waiting for a Ryanair flight.
This is not the first disagreement between the two business leaders; they previously argued over the same issue in 2024.
