Jet2 bans passengers for life after attempted 'mile-high club' incident on flight to Gran Canaria

The incident happened on the ground during taxiing at East Midlands Airport, with the flight continuing to Gran Canaria after the crew intervened

Jet2 has confirmed that two passengers in their 50s have been banned for life following an incident on a flight from the UK to Spain's Gran Canaria after reports of inappropriate behaviour on board before take-off.

The flight, which was due to depart from East Midlands Airport, was still taxiing on the runway when other passengers alerted cabin crew to what has been described as an attempted 'mile-high club' situation between a couple seated on board.

The phrase is usually reserved for aircraft at cruising altitude, but in this case, the couple didn't quite make it off the runway before the crew stepped in. According to eyewitness accounts reported in UK media, the behaviour took place during the pre-take-off phase, with passengers nearby raising concerns.

Passengers said the incident was impossible to miss, prompting staff to step in and speak to the couple while the aircraft was still on the ground. When approached by the crew, the pair reportedly claimed they were simply praying, an explanation which did not appear to convince those nearby. The crew dealt with the situation immediately rather than waiting until landing.

Despite the disruption, the flight continued to Gran Canaria as scheduled. Passengers said the atmosphere on board was quite awkward during the early part of the journey, with the crew managing the situation discreetly as the aircraft left the runway.

Jet2 later confirmed the passengers were removed from their return travel arrangements and were given a lifetime ban. The company said it operates a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to behaviour that disrupts other passengers, especially on holiday routes where most people just want a quiet start to their trip.

So in the end, they have disrupted their own holiday and made the flight uncomfortable for everyone else while still not quite making it into any club at all.

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