Holidaymakers Face New Drink-Drive Enforcement at Aberdeen International Airport under Operation Safe Landing

(IN SHORT) Police Scotland has introduced Operation Safe Landing at Aberdeen International Airport, uniting Border and Road Policing officers to prevent drink-driving among holiday arrivals. The initiative features heightened roadside checks, passenger engagement, and breathalyser testing. Early operations have uncovered various offences, including drink- and drug-driving, vehicle defects, and careless driving. Officers remind travellers to plan safe journeys if they consume alcohol in flight. In 2024/25, the force logged 8,568 drink- and drug-driving offences, with penalties including a minimum 12-month ban, substantial fines, and possible imprisonment. Airport authorities endorse the scheme as a critical step in safeguarding passengers.

(PRESS RELEASE) ABERDEEN, Scotland, 2025-Jul-14 — /Travel PR News/ — Police Scotland has rolled out Operation Safe Landing, a collaborative effort between Border Policing and Road Policing teams aimed at curbing drink-driving among holidaymakers arriving at Aberdeen International Airport. Through increased patrols and checkpoints on airport access roads, officers will engage with incoming passengers and, where warranted, conduct breathalyser tests.

Border Policing Inspector Kelly Manson explained that while many travellers may view an in-flight drink as part of their holiday, Scotland’s stringent drink-drive limit and the combined effects of alcohol and travel fatigue can dangerously impair driving ability. “Operation Safe Landing ensures everyone gets home safely without endangering themselves or others,” she said. “We’ll assess this pilot with a view to extending it to other locations.”

Early results have already seen motorists detected for drink- and drug-driving offences, as well as other infractions such as vehicle defects, careless driving, mobile phone use behind the wheel, and even locating a suspect in an unrelated investigation. Road Policing Inspector Steve Manson reiterated the force’s commitment to road safety through both education and enforcement. “If you’ve consumed alcohol on your flight, please arrange a safe onward journey,” he urged. “Drink-driving can destroy lives—let’s all take responsibility and save lives.”

During 2024/25, Police Scotland recorded 8,568 drink- and drug-driving offences. Convicted drivers face at least a 12-month ban, fines up to £5,000, a criminal record, and potentially imprisonment.

Robert Paterson, Head of Operations at Aberdeen International Airport, welcomed the initiative: “Passenger safety is our priority, and our partnership with Police Scotland promotes responsible travel behaviour. We’re pleased to back this project and keep our airport a safe environment for all.”

Media contact:
AgsMediaCentre@agsairports.co.uk

SOURCE: Aberdeen International Airport