An aggressive altercation between an unruly passenger demanding alcohol, Nobuntu Mkhize, and cabin crew staff on a local flight between Durban and Cape Town on Boxing Day, 26 December 2024, caused havoc. People posted videos of the incident all over social media. Although Mkhize claims she was ‘sober as a judge’, FlySafair staff members had to handcuff and restrain her mid-flight.
Here are the consequences of her behaviour.
Mkhize mentioned her affiliation with the African National Congress (ANC) and the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) during the altercation.
She claimed, as an SABC employee, that the incident would be broadcast on SABC News. She also claimed that nothing could happen to her because of her loyalty to the African National Congress (ANC).
However, both the ANC and the SABC condemned her behaviour and issued media statements following the incident. The ANC described Mkhize’s behaviour as ‘unruly’ and ‘unbecoming’, stating that this behaviour goes against the values and principles of the movement.
The SABC stated that it condemns the staff member’s conduct and regrets the incident. The statement emphasises that the SABC ‘always encourages staff members to uphold the SABC values of respect and integrity in all their interactions’.
What are the consequences after Mkhize’s flight outburst?
In viral videos from the flight, Mkhize can be seen confronting the cabin crew, with eyewitnesses noting her apparent intoxication at the time.
A passenger on FlySAFair was allegedly intoxicated on a flight and started a fight after they refused her more alcohol.
Cosatu | Boxing Day | Zimbabwe | Manchester | Zanu | Nabi | Makhadzi pic.twitter.com/4zJSftl19J
— Sanna (@LesNew5) December 27, 2024
Mkhize now has a lot of subsequent consequences to deal with.
Firstly, the ANC stated that it has initiated an investigation into Mkhize’s membership status.
Secondly, FlySafair has placed her on its no-fly list, as reported by capetownetc and stated that interfering with crew members’ duties is a criminal offence. A spokesperson for the airline, Kirby Gorden, confirmed that they handed over the passenger to the police upon the plane’s arrival in Cape Town.
The SABC confirmed that it will take internal measures to address Mkhize’s actions.
The police have confirmed that they are investigating the matter as Mkhize is now threatening legal action.
Mkhize claims crew members are to blame
According to Mkhize, the altercation started when a crew member was impolite after she asked about available drinks, leading her to feel annoyed. Mkhize also mentioned that some of her strong words came from feeling disrespected by the crew. Regarding her racial comments during the incident, Mkhize stated that the crew’s provocation was the reason for her behaviour.
She has subsequently made it clear that she will pursue legal action against both the airline and the police. Her argument is that the cabin crew provoking her caused her reactions. Also, she criticised the airline for claiming she was intoxicated without proof.
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