Passengers are being urged to stay on the ‘Nice List’ at Australian airports as the festive season approaches

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) will step up its patrol of major airports across Australia as the festive season gets underway.

The aviation sector is recovering from over two years of pandemic-related turbulence.

However, travel demand is beginning to return to pre-pandemic levels.

Melbourne International Airport recently recorded 78 per cent passenger numbers when compared to figures from October 2019.

These figures are expected to increase during the festive season, which has prompted the AFP to bolster its commitment to protecting passengers.

Authorities are working with airlines, airports and regulatory authorities to help ensure a safe environment for passengers.

More than 330 alleged offenders have been charged around 420 charges at Australian airports between May and October this year.

In most cases, the charges involved intoxication, offensive behaviour, possessing a prohibited weapon, carrying prohibited items, public disturbance and incidents relating to assault.

“This is a special time of the year, and the AFP is at airports to keep passengers safe,’’ Assistant Commissioner Scott Lee said.

“The majority of passengers do the right thing, but we know those who do not can be disruptive for other passengers.”

How prepared are Australian airports?

The Australian Airports Association concedes this upcoming holiday season will be a “busy one”.

However, company chief executive officer James Goodwin said it is important travellers do the “right thing” and respect each other.”

“Australian Airports Association chief executive officer James Goodwin said the holiday season would be a busy one, but it was important travellers did the right thing and respected each other,” he said.

Australian airports have been impacted by staff shortages, because of pandemic-related illness.

The national carrier, Qantas has come under fire for firing thousands of staff during the height of the pandemic, which have impacted consumers at many Australian airports.

The airline apologised for its barrage of delayed or cancelled flights, and lost luggage as travellers returned to the skies since the height of Covid-lockdowns brought the sector to a grinding halt.

“On behalf of the national carrier, I want to apologise and assure you that we’re working hard to get back to our best,” said Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce at the time.