Dublin-bound Aer Lingus flight forced to delay take off as 'disruptive' passengers removed by police

An Irish-bound flight from a popular holiday destination in Portugal was forced to delay its evening take off, as unruly passengers aboard prompted a call to local authorities.

The Aer Lingus flight (EI499), which was set to leave Faro Airport in south Portugal shortly after 11pm on Thursday, was forced to return to the stand so that the reportedly "disruptive" passengers could be removed.

The passengers were removed from the aircraft by local police. It is not yet known if the passengers removed were Irish.

The delayed flight was eventually able to depart almost an hour later, not arriving in Dublin until after 2am.

Irish aviation enthusiasts reacted with embarrassment online, saying that the disruptive passengers were "more drunk idiots no doubt".

One commenter, presuming the disruptive passengers were Irish, jokingly added that they were "doing the country proud".

Ireland's aviation industry had cracked down on disruptive, unruly and dangerous passengers this year, as Aer Lingus, Ryanair and other major players in the Irish market launched a #NotOnMyFlight campaign, aiming to make flying a safer and more enjoyable experience for all involved.

Aer Lingus and Faro police have been contacted for comment.

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