In a bid to tighten control and resolutely eliminate driving under the influence of alcohol, Police Scotland has officially launched a new, drastic campaign called "Operation Flight Safe" at Aberdeen International Airport. This initiative marks a strong step forward in efforts to ensure traffic safety across the region, especially targeting passengers who have just disembarked from a plane.
According to an official announcement from Police Scotland, the authorities will significantly increase their presence at the airport. Checkpoints will be set up randomly along the airport roads, where police will proactively approach passengers who have just landed and conduct alcohol tests if they detect signs of suspicion. The goal of this is not only to impose fines but also to send a strong message about the responsibility of each individual after getting off the plane.
A new campaign called "Safe Landing" has just been launched by Police Scotland, UK at Aberdeen International Airport, to check the alcohol concentration of passengers after leaving the plane, with the aim of cracking down on drunk driving.
Inspector Kelly Manson, representing Border Police, was clear about the importance of the campaign: "We absolutely understand that, for many people, enjoying a drink on board a flight can be an essential part of the holiday. However, it is essential to remember that the alcohol limit for driving in Scotland is extremely strict. When combined with fatigue from long-distance travel, alcohol can seriously impair the ability to drive, putting both the driver and the public at unnecessary risk." Ms Manson was also adamant that 'Safe Landing' was designed with the ultimate goal of ensuring every passenger can leave the airport safely and responsibly.
According to an announcement from Police Scotland, this campaign is a joint initiative between the border police force and the road traffic police.
The campaign is currently being piloted at Aberdeen Airport, but if it proves effective, the force will consider replicating the model at other airports and areas across Scotland. This shows the determination of Police Scotland to eliminate drink driving.
Police will increase their presence at the airport, conduct random roadside checks, approach newly landed passengers, and conduct breathalyzer tests where necessary.
Police Scotland’s 2024-2025 financial year statistics paint a worrying picture: 8,568 drink-driving offences were recorded, underscoring the need and urgency for tighter controls.
The legal consequences for drink driving in Scotland are extremely severe, including: a minimum driving ban of 12 months, fines of up to £5,000 (equivalent to more than 175 million VND), a criminal record, and in many cases, even a prison sentence.
The campaign is currently in the testing phase, but if effective, authorities will consider expanding the model to other airports and areas.
Traffic Inspector Steve Manson issued a blunt warning: "Drink driving is not only illegal but also a direct cause of death and serious injury. Just one wrong decision, one subjective moment behind the wheel can completely change your life and the lives of those around you forever. We earnestly call on the entire community to show responsibility and join hands to prevent these heartbreaking and unfortunate consequences."
With tighter controls and increased public awareness, the “Safe Landing” campaign is expected to become a necessary step in efforts to reduce alcohol-related traffic accidents in Scotland.
On behalf of Aberdeen International Airport, Mr. Robert Paterson, Head of Operations, expressed strong support for the new campaign: "Passenger safety is always our top priority. We understand that holidays are a time to relax and enjoy, but it is equally important that everyone has a plan for safe travel from the airport to home, ensuring the journey ends completely and absolutely safely."
By tightening controls at key gateways and increasing public awareness, the ‘Safe Landing’ campaign is expected to be a strategic and effective step in significantly reducing alcohol-related road accidents across Scotland.
