A flight operated by Ryanair departing from Dublin bound for Amsterdam had to halt its take-off as a passenger from Belfast reportedly assaulted a cabin crew member, according to reports.
Christopher Tinsley, a 34-year-old individual from Shankill Road, Belfast, made an appearance before Judge John Hughes at Dublin District Court on Saturday. He was seen wearing a shirt featuring the logo of the hardcore techno group Angerfist and is facing charges of assaulting a male flight attendant during the 6.25 pm flight on Friday.
Tinsley is also accused of causing disruption onboard under two additional charges specified in the Air Navigation and Transport (Amendment) Act, 1998. Allegations include being excessively intoxicated to the point of posing a safety risk to himself or others on the plane, and engaging in behavior described as threatening, abusive, or insulting, as reported by the Irish Mirror.
According to Garda Ahmed Bilal, the incident occurred while the aircraft was taxiing and preparing for take-off, leading to the pilot diverting the plane away from the runway due to Tinsley’s disruptive behavior.
The departure was delayed by around two hours due to the incident.
Garda Bilal opposed granting bail, citing concerns about flight risk as the accused lives outside the jurisdiction. The officer based in Ballymun informed the court that the victim suffered a visible injury to his face and provided a formal statement as a witness.
Defense counsel Kevin McCrave requested bail on behalf of Tinsley, highlighting his client’s occupation as a self-employed painter, maintaining his innocence, and assuring compliance with any court-imposed conditions. Tinsley did not address the court directly but confirmed his instructions to the counsel.
Judge Hughes approved the bail request but imposed stringent conditions. Tinsley is required to pay €500 as part of a €1,000 bond and secure an independent surety of €1,000, with half to be submitted in cash.
As part of the release terms, Tinsley must surrender his passport, stay away from Dublin Airport, and report weekly to Dundalk Garda Station.
Tinsley, who has not entered a plea yet, was remanded in custody with bail granted. His next court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday as authorities await directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions. Legal aid was provided.
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