Number of disruptive incidents involving air passengers up by almost a fifth

Incidents of disruptive behaviour by airline passengers around the world rose 17% last year, new figures show.

Some 10,854 cases were reported in 2015 compared to 9,316 during the previous year, according to aviation industry body IATA.

Alcohol or drug use was identified in almost one in four (23%) incidents and 11% featured physical aggression or damage to the aircraft.

Recent police statistics showed hundreds of passengers were arrested in the UK on suspicion of being drunk on a plane or at an airport in the last two years.

Figures obtained by the Press Association showed at least 442 people were held between March 2014 and March 2016.

Last month budget airline Jet2.com banned the sale of alcohol before 8am on its flights as part of a commitment to tackle disruptive and abusive behaviour.

IATA chief executive Alexandre de Juniac said: "Unruly and disruptive behaviour is simply not acceptable.

"The anti-social behaviour of a tiny minority of customers can have unpleasant consequences for the safety and comfort of all on board.

"The increase in reported incidents tells us that more effective deterrents are needed."