Ryanair captain removes Francesco Renga from Brindisi flight after luggage row and cabin crew insults
Italian singer Francesco Renga was forced off a Ryanair flight from Brindisi to Bergamo on Sunday after a dispute over hand luggage escalated into insults toward cabin crew, prompting the captain to return to the gate.
The luggage dispute
The incident began at the boarding gate of a Ryanair flight from Brindisi to Bergamo Orio al Serio on Sunday evening, 6 July 2026. Francesco Renga's carry-on bag was judged too large for the cabin by ground staff. After a heated exchange, the singer paid the required supplement and was allowed to board. Some passengers recognised him and took selfies, momentarily easing tensions. Ryanair is known for strict enforcement of cabin baggage dimensions, with ground staff reportedly receiving incentives for catching oversized bags.
Escalation on board
Once seated, Renga grew agitated over the flight's delay, which had already accumulated about 30 minutes. He complained loudly to cabin crew and argued with nearby passengers. When a steward attempted to calm him, Renga allegedly responded with insults. Several passengers filmed the altercation on their smartphones. Witnesses described the singer's behaviour as nervous and visibly altered.
Captain's decision
With the aircraft already taxiing toward the runway, the captain decided to abort the departure and return to the gate. He deemed Renga and his companion unfit to fly and ordered them off the plane. Videos show the singer walking down the aisle and exiting the aircraft amid jeers from other travellers. The captain's decision was based on safety concerns, as the crew considered Renga's state unsuitable for the flight.
Social media fallout
Clips of the incident quickly spread on social media, drawing widespread attention and mockery. Renga's press office has not issued an official statement; one report indicated his team denied any altercation. Unconfirmed accounts from some passengers suggested Renga smelled of alcohol, but this remains unverified. Ryanair has not commented on the matter.
Flight disruption
The incident prolonged the delay, with the aircraft finally taking off at around 00:30, approximately half an hour behind schedule. The flight eventually reached Bergamo, but the episode left other passengers frustrated and generated significant online discussion.
