In aviation, safety is taken very seriously, and in this industry, there is no such thing as “OA” (over-acting). Professionals in this field would rather be cautious than passive until something untoward happens, such as a terrorist attack. As such, bomb jokes, even if meant as a joke, are taken very seriously, regardless of who makes them. Cracking a bomb joke can lead to severe consequences.
AirAsia Philippines is reaching out to its passengers, urging them to adhere to established safety protocols to ensure timely and uninterrupted travel. As the number of travelers heading to various domestic island destinations and international locations with colder climates increases, the airline emphasizes the importance of responsible behavior during flights.
AirAsia is known for its commitment to passenger safety, and part of maintaining a secure environment involves a strict stance against any behavior that could be perceived as a threat. This includes making bomb jokes or any other security-related comments that could disrupt the peace and safety of fellow passengers.
Steve Dailisan, AirAsia Philippines Head of Communications and Public Affairs and First Officer, stated, “Bomb jokes and other security-related issues are taken seriously out of rigorous protocol. AirAsia reiterates that bomb jokes are immediately interpreted as a security threat.” Such actions not only risk the safety of the flight but can also lead to discomfort or even trauma, especially for first-time flyers.
Legal Consequences of Irresponsible Behavior
Passengers making inappropriate jokes or comments can face severe consequences under Philippine law. Presidential Decree 1727 and Republic Act 11479, or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2000, outline penalties including up to five years in prison or fines up to PHP 40,000. These laws underscore the seriousness with which such matters are treated, both for the safety of all onboard and the operational integrity of the airline.
In addition to security concerns, AirAsia also reminds passengers of the general decorum required during flights. Proper behavior, such as staying seated during boarding and disembarkation, contributes significantly to the smooth operation of the flight, allowing for timely departures and arrivals. The airline also advises against excessive alcohol consumption, as it can lead to unruly behavior, potentially resulting in disciplinary actions including being reprimanded or offloaded.
Moreover, AirAsia stresses the importance of cleanliness onboard. While cabin crew routinely collect trash, passengers are encouraged to take proactive steps in maintaining cleanliness by disposing of their trash properly. “It will also help save time and contribute to the flight’s on-time performance if guests observe proper disposal of trash, especially upon disembarking the aircraft,” Dailisan added.
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!
