A Jet2 flight diverted to Brussels after a violent altercation on board, sparked by alleged racist remarks and resulting in two passengers being removed and permanently banned.
Summary: A Jet2 flight from Antalya to Manchester (LS896) was diverted to Brussels on 13 February 2026 after a violent aisle confrontation erupted following alleged racist remarks. Belgian authorities removed two passengers, who have been permanently banned by Jet2.
A Jet2 flight diverted to Brussels after a serious in‑flight disturbance when a disagreement escalated into a physical fight. The Jet2 flight diverted — LS896, operating from Antalya, Turkey to Manchester, United Kingdom — was forced to make an unscheduled landing at Brussels Airport on 13 February 2026 to restore safety and order on board.
How the Incident Unfolded
According to airline statements and eyewitnesses, the trouble began at cruising altitude when one passenger allegedly directed racist comments at fellow travellers, reportedly singling out passengers of Pakistani origin. Cabin crew attempted to calm the situation but were unable to prevent the confrontation from intensifying into a physical altercation in the aisle.
Pilot Decision and Response on the Ground
With cabin safety compromised, the flight crew elected to divert the aircraft to Brussels Airport. After landing, airline staff and Belgian police boarded the aircraft and removed the two passengers involved. The flight later resumed and reached Manchester later that evening once authorities had cleared the situation.
- Flight: Jet2 LS896, Antalya (Turkey) to Manchester (United Kingdom)
- Diversion airport: Brussels Airport (Belgium)
- Date of incident: 13 February 2026
- Passengers removed: Two individuals involved in the altercation
- Aftermath: Both passengers placed on Jet2’s permanent no‑fly list
“appalling”
Jet2 characterised the conduct of the individuals involved as “appalling” and reiterated its commitment to passenger safety and maintaining order aboard its flights. The airline confirmed it had permanently banned the two passengers and said it would seek to recover costs associated with the unscheduled diversion.
Impact on Travellers and Operations
Travellers aboard LS896 described fear and distress as the incident unfolded, with many confined to their seats while crew and other passengers tried to bring the situation under control. Although reports did not indicate any hospital‑level injuries, the emotional toll on passengers and staff was notable.
- Delay to scheduled arrival in Manchester after unscheduled landing and security procedures in Brussels
- Potential financial costs for the airline that Jet2 intends to recover from the banned passengers
- Heightened public and passenger concern about in‑flight safety and discriminatory behaviour
Wider Lessons and Regulatory Cooperation
The episode underlines how airlines, flight crews and local authorities work together to manage violent or discriminatory incidents. Quick decisions by pilots to divert can prevent further escalation and prioritise passenger welfare, while permanent bans and legal cooperation between jurisdictions act as deterrents against similar conduct.
So what? For travellers, this incident is a reminder to follow crew instructions, avoid confrontations and be aware that airlines take racial abuse and violence seriously — with lifetime bans and potential legal consequences. For the aviation industry, it reinforces the need for robust crew training, clear protocols for diversion and strong cooperation with law enforcement when incidents cross borders.
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