unruly aircraft passenger
Definition
A passenger on an airplane who behaves disruptively, often ignoring safety instructions, arguing with crew, or causing disturbances that jeopardize the flight.
Informal term for someone turning a routine flight into an unplanned episode of in-flight drama, popularized by viral videos and FAA fines.
Examples
The unruly aircraft passenger tried to open the emergency exit because he wanted 'fresher air' at 30,000 feet.
Flight attendants had to restrain the unruly aircraft passenger who insisted his emotional support peacock needed its own row.
Thanks to that unruly aircraft passenger screaming about legroom, we all got a complimentary delay and extra turbulence.
The unruly aircraft passenger's mid-flight karaoke session ended with him being zip-tied to his seat—encore denied.