Businessman on air rage charge
15.10.06
A Businessman has been charged after an alleged air rage confrontation with cabin crew over a drink of water, the Shields Gazette reports.
Khalid Hamodi, 44, is said to have flown into a rage after being refused alcohol as the packed 757 holiday jet prepared to touch down at Newcastle Airport. When told he could only have water, he is said to have lost his temper, become abusive and to have sworn at staff.
The captain radioed ahead to alert airport police, and they boarded the aeroplane and arrested Hamodi seconds after the Thomas Cook flight landed at Newcastle Airport. He was quizzed and charged with acting in a disruptive manner on an aircraft.
Mr Hamodi, owner of St Thomas's Residential Home in South Shields, vehemently denies the offence and says he intends to sue Thomas Cook. Mr Hamodi, who is also licensee of The Office pub in South Shields, said he did not drink any alcohol on the flight.
He said: 'I am on medication for a hip injury and was not drinking any alcohol. I had asked several times for water to take my medication but had been ignored. The attitude of staff was terrible. It was a passenger beside me who was refused a drink. I intend to fight this all the way.'
A Thomas Cook spokesman said: 'The captain and crew deemed [Mr Hamodi] was affecting the good order and safety of the cabin and, following standard procedure, they requested the aircraft be met on arrival by the police.'
'Our position is very clear on these matters. We operate a zero tolerance policy towards unacceptable behaviour. We would like to praise the Newcastle Airport police for their quick response and assistance with this passenger.'
A Northumbria Police spokesman said: 'We can confirm a 44-year-old man was arrested at the airport and charged. He will appear before magistrates next week.'
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