FAA: Airlines have reported more than 500 unruly passengers

Airlines have reported more than 500 cases involving unruly passengers since late December, and most started with passengers who refused to wear a face mask, federal officials said Wednesday. The FAA said it is reviewing more than 450 of the cases and has started enforcement action against about 20 people. The FAA reported the figures shortly after it extended a “zero-tolerance” policy against unruly people on airline flights. The agency said that under the policy, passengers who disrupt or threaten the safety of a flight could face fines and jail time. “The number of cases we’re seeing is still far too high, and it tells us urgent action continues to be required,” FAA Administrator Stephen Dickson said. The tougher enforcement stance was due to expire at the end of this month, but the FAA announced Monday that it will stay in place as long as airline passengers are required to wear face masks. The FAA is seeking civil penalties against at least four passengers. The agency announced two new cases on Wednesday.<br/>