On 12 February 2026, the third meeting of the working group on anti-social behaviour towards airport ground staff took place. The agenda included a presentation of the initial figures from the national register launched in collaboration with the DGAC and a discussion on measures implemented on the ground.
Most incidents are concentrated in three areas
According to initial data provided by the relevant parties (ground handling staff, security companies, airports), the majority of the incidents recorded took place in three areas:
- Passenger and baggage security checkpoints: 44.5%
- Boarding areas: 34%
- Check-in desks: 16%
According to the initial data provided, although the vast majority of incidents were classified as ‘disruptive’ behaviour (involving no verbal or physical aggression or endangerment), half of the incidents of anti-social behaviour resulted in the intervention of the Border Police (PAF).
These initial figures still need to be validated in consultation with all stakeholders and consolidated over a longer period.
Prevention and support: Alyzia’s experience
At the same meeting, one of our members, Alyzia, outlined the prevention and training initiatives her teams have been implementing to improve their handling of critical situations:
- Specialised training courses to prepare staff for sensitive situations;
- Dissemination of best operational practices;
- Specific procedures to be followed when dealing with anti-social behaviour;
- Enhanced support for staff dealing with such situations.
All these initiatives highlight the importance of preparing and supporting frontline staff.
Air France: developing a framework for managing disruptive passengers
To further inform the working group’s discussions, Air France has outlined a number of measures it has taken to deal with disruptive passengers.
In addition to its blacklist system, which has been in operation since 2017, the company has rolled out a three-year training programme. A centralised reporting system also makes it easier for line managers to report incidents.
Tangible progress, but work still in progress
Discussions within the working group confirm a strong consensus among stakeholders in the sector: prevention, training, spatial planning and improved coordination are seen as key drivers.
Whilst measures are being put in place, there are still many challenges ahead in the coming months:
- Improve the reliability and expand the scope of incident reporting;
- To disseminate and standardise best practice amongst all stakeholders in the sector;
- Continue the regulatory review of on-the-ground sanctions.
These are all measures that will help to improve the protection and well-being of ground handling staff at work, as well as the safety of all passengers and the reliability of flights.