The British passenger alleged assaulted the victim and was arrested and charged with dangerous bodily harm and disturbing the peace after the pilot made the emergency landing in Greece
A Brit reportedly forced a pilot to make an emergency landing after allegedly “punching” a fellow passenger.
The flight from Manchester to tourist hotspot Antalya, Turkey, made an emergency landing in Thessaloniki, Greece, on Monday following the alleged assault. A 35-year-old British man is alleged to have punched a 41-year-old Turkish passenger during the flight.
It is unclear what the instigating incident was that led to the alleged assault. The captain then made an emergency landing at Thessaloniki Airport at about 11pm local time, according to local media.
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The Brit was arrested following the emergency landing, reports Greek outlet Ekathimerini. The victim was examined by a doctor at the airport before he continued onward to Antalya.
The Brit was due to appear before a prosecutor on Tuesday and faced the possibility of being charged with dangerous interference with transportation, bodily harm, disobedience and disturbing the peace, reports the outlet.
According to Ekathimerini, the Brit was convicted at a Thessaloniki court over the alleged assault and was handed a 15-month prison sentence. But he was allowed to “buy off” his sentence at a rate of €10 (£8.67) per day.
The Brit would be expected to pay an estimated €4,570 (£3,959) to cover the 15-month sentence. He was reportedly found guilty of dangerous bodily harm and disturbing the peace on the flight but was acquitted of the charge of disobedience.
The sentence was suspended pending an appeal and he was released. Reports said the Brit denied punching the passenger, claiming he pushing him after he felt a “shake” as he tried to recline in his seat.
He reportedly told the court: “I didn’t do anything violent.” He allegedly admitted to drinking a small amount of alcohol and cabin crew members said he had drunk two cans of beer.