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The numbers of airline staff facing aggressive passenger behaviour has risen significantly, according to new figures.

A report from the Civil Aviation Authority has revealed that the year has seen the number of assaults on cabin crew double from nine in the first three months of 2007 to 18 in the first quarter of this year.

Overall, there were 601 incidents of so-called air rage that presented a threat to crew members from passengers from January to March this year. The majority of the incidents were the result of aggressive males in their 30s, with women passengers involved in just a quarter of the rage attacks.

An increase in delays as well as excessive drinking are thought to be the main factors for the rise in threats towards staff and many airlines are adopting a zero tolerance approach.

Keith Bill, of pilots' association BALPA, said: "Some of our pilots think it may be because passengers are experiencing more delays in the airport. They get on the plane totally plastered."

He added: "Misbehaving on board is a threat not just to the people involved, but to the safety of the whole plane."

As well as excessive alcohol consumption, it is believed that air rage is often a side effect of the anxiety experienced by people who are nervous about flying.

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