The UK government is considering plans for a national blacklist that would allow airlines to identify and potentially refuse travel to passengers with a history of drunken, abusive or violent conduct onboard.
Under the proposed system, information about serious incidents involving disruptive travellers could be shared through public officials rather than directly between airlines.
Currently, passengers banned by one carrier are often still able to fly with another because airlines are unable to share personal data under existing data protection rules.
The new approach would involve public authorities, potentially including police, Border Force and immigration officers, holding and sharing relevant information with airlines when necessary.
Officials could alert airlines if a passenger attempting to check in had a record of serious onboard misconduct, allowing carriers to decide whether they wished to carry that traveller.
Because the process would involve public authorities rather than airline-to-airline information sharing, the system is understood to be compliant with current data protection laws and would not require new legislation.
The move comes amid growing concern over rising levels of disruptive behaviour on flights.
Incidents involving drunken and aggressive passengers have become increasingly common in recent years, prompting airlines and ministers to search for stronger deterrents.
Earlier this month, chaos broke out onboard an EasyJet flight after a woman believed to be British allegedly lunged at another passenger while intoxicated.
The airline industry has broadly welcomed the proposals.
Tim Alderslade, Chief Executive of Airlines UK, said: "UK airlines have a zero-tolerance approach to disruptive behaviour.
"Additional measures for the most serious cases of disruption, including the creation of a national ban list, are an important next step in ensuring a tiny minority of passengers cannot disrupt air travel for the majority.
"We welcome the government’s support for further action and will work closely with ministers on delivering the right solutions."
Jet2 has also backed the idea.
Phil Ward, Chief Operations Officer at Jet2, said: "The creation of a national database will mean that, as well as being banned from flying with us, disruptive passengers can also be banned from flying with other UK airlines."
Public support for tougher action appears strong.
A recent YouGov poll of 5,000 adults found 37 per cent supported the plans outright, while a further 38 per cent said they somewhat supported them. Only 11 per cent opposed the proposal.
Being drunk onboard an aircraft is already a criminal offence and can carry penalties of up to £5,000 and two years in prison.
Industry leaders are expected to discuss the plans further at a meeting later this month.
