A RYANAIR steward who was caught downing Jack Daniels and wine from the drinks trolley mid-flight has claimed he’s “no criminal”.
Sam Thompson, 26, was seen “necking the whole bottle” of wine while on board the flight from Rzeszow, Poland, to Stansted.
The cabin crew member was filmed by a horrified passenger drinking the booze – and he was arrested after the plane landed.
Thompson last month admitted performing an aviation function as a member of cabin crew while his ability to do so was impaired by drink.
He was due to be sentenced at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court in Essex on Monday but was instead committed for sentencing at Chelmsford Crown Court on August 31.
Thompson, wearing a white shirt, dark trousers and brown shoes in court today, stood and told the court: “I am not a criminal, sir.”
The court was previously heard how police were scrambled to the runway at Stansted on May 18 this year after the alarm was raised.
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He was breathalysed and found to have 50mg per 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit for driving is 35mg.
Footage revealed by The Sun showed uniformed Thompson sitting near the exit door as he apparently tries to discreetly drink rosé.
In another clip, he turns away and appears to knock back a shot of whiskey.
After sinking it, he gags and says “don’t make it obvious” as he tries to hide his drinking from other staff.
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Michael Carroll, defending, earlier said Thompson and alcohol are “not the best of friends”.
He today said it was a “great pity” the case could not conclude as planned – but said he has “glowing references” to show the crown court judge.
“We would like Mr Thompson to gain help,” chairman of the bench Stuart Cranmer said.
“Clearly there will be a punishment element to it but hopefully you will get help.”
Mr Carroll replied: “I am grateful for you words, I’m sure they give some comfort to Mr Thompson.”
Mr Cranmer extended Thompson’s unconditional bail but reminded him he must be at court for sentencing and not commit further offences in the meantime.
Ryanair crew are not allowed to drink alcohol up to eight hours before, or during, a flight.
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The company’s code of ethics says being “impaired by drugs or alcohol while performing company business” is subject to disciplinary action.
Thompson was sacked by the airline following the mid-air incident.
Thomspson was filmed by a horrified passenger[/caption]