Passengers on a flight as a flight attendant explains the rules and procedures. Picture: Unsplash
In an incident that has ignited a firestorm on social media, a passenger aboard a South African Airways (FlySAA) flight was caught vaping, highlighting ongoing concerns about compliance with airline regulations.
A TikTok video shared by Linees Ismael (@linees03) captured the shocking moment she encountered while returning to South Africa after a holiday in Mauritius.
The incident reportedly unfolded when the female passenger, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, disregarded prohibition rules after consuming a few drinks.
@linees03 Some people are so selfish. She only thought about herself at that moment. I am very disappointed in @South african airways . They were given the video, and then expected the passenger that took the video to open up a case. Why is the justice system failing us left right and centre? #fypシ゚viral🖤tiktok #fypシ゚viral #fypp ♬ original sound - Linees Ismael 💁♀️👑
According to Ismael, the traveller began vaping in the cabin, prompting astonishment and frustration from fellow passengers.
Upon landing at OR Tambo International Airport, police intervened, removing the offending individual from the aircraft following the presentation of the video evidence collected by another passenger.
@linees03 #storytime #fypシ゚viral🖤tiktok #fypシ゚viral #travel ♬ original sound - Linees Ismael 💁♀️👑
Posting her grievances on TikTok, Ismael expressed her disappointment in South African Airways' response.
“Some people are so selfish. She only thought about herself at that moment. I am very disappointed in @South African Airways.
She lamented: “They were given the video and then expected the passenger that took the video to open up a case. Why is the justice system failing us left, right and centre?”
The regulations on smoking and vaping on flights in South Africa are stringent. Not only is smoking banned on all domestic flights but it is also prohibited in all airport terminals, public transport, cinemas, and other public spaces.
According to FlySAA’s website, electronic cigarettes are categorically prohibited for use on all flights, although they can be carried in hand or checked luggage.
The airline’s guidelines further stress the removal of lithium-ion batteries from vaping devices if stowed in the hold.
The viral footage of the incident has amassed a staggering 4.2 million views, sparking outrage among netizens who voiced their concerns in the comment section.
User @unique_ish sarcastically asked whether the risk of being banned permanently from flying was worth the momentary pleasure of vaping, while @grininthegrit noted the potential dangers of such behaviour in the presence of children.
Another user, @lovekills, recounted similar experiences of passengers being swiftly removed and arrested on the spot.
This incident raises critical questions about accountability for passengers who overlook regulations and for airlines that may not act decisively enough.
Ismael’s call for better enforcement of rules comes amidst an era of heightened awareness regarding smoking and vaping, particularly on flights where confined spaces and air quality are of paramount concern.