A KILBIRNIE man has been fined for being drunk and abusive on a flight from Alicante to Prestwick.

Kevin McCoy, 38, admitted boarding the Ryanair flight from Alicante to Prestwick Airport while drunk on May 1 and grabbing one staff member by their bottom.

He also owned up to behaving in a threatening and abusive manner, insulting staff, demanding food and repeatedly uttering derogatory remarks.

He seized one cabin crew member’s tie as he was passing, as well as his lanyard.

McCoy appeared before Sheriff Desmond Leslie at Ayr Sheriff Court last week.

The court heard how the events took place around 10 in the evening.

Cabin crew members identified McCoy as being under the influence before he boarded.

Depute Fiscal Kevin Jarvis said: “One staff member spoke to the accused and found that he was under the influence of alcohol. They told the accused that it was against the law to board a flight drunk.

“McCoy stated that he would just fall asleep. He was allowed to board and took his seat. The flight took off. Half an hour later, the accused’s behaviour became distressing.

“He was shouting and swearing ‘where’s my f***ing food?’ Staff warned him about his behaviour but he took no notice. the cabin crew called another member of staff. He was shouting ‘mother f***er’.

“It was decided that no more alcohol should be served to him. He grabbed on of the complainer’s ties and the lanyard. He then grabbed one cabin crew member by the bottom.

“The flight continued to Prestwick Airport and it was requested that police attend on landing.

“When the aircraft did land, McCoy was informed he was under arrest.”

Speaking on his behalf, defence solicitor Jill Malloy said: “Mr McCoy was away with friends and foolishly got drunk before he got on board. He regrets his behaviour and, although he does have a record, it is of some age.”

Addressing the dock, Sheriff Leslie, said: “You are very fortunate that you are not getting a custodial sentence.”

McCoy, of Newhouse Drive, Kilbirnie, was fined £500 and ordered to make payments of £10 per week.