An easyJet flight was forced to turn back twice due to reported fighting on board.

The flight to Alicante from Manchester Airport was delayed by three hours over the disturbances before it eventually took off.

The airline believe the disruptive passengers had been drinking.

A spokesperson for EasyJet said: "We can confirm that the flight EZY1919 from Manchester to Alicante returned to stand on two occasions as a result of two separate groups of passengers on board behaving disruptively.

"We are aware that some passengers were drinking their own alcohol on board and prior to the flight in the terminal.

"Police met the aircraft to remove the passengers before it continued to Alicante.

EasyJet believe the disruptive passengers were boozing


"Whilst such incidents are rare, we have take them very seriously, and do not tolerate abusive or threatening behaviour on board.

"The safety and wellbeing of customers and crew is our highest priority."

According to Manchester Evening News, the disruptive passengers were met by police officers who took them off the jet.

Greater Manchester Police has been approached for further comment.

It is not yet clear what caused the apparent fighting or if anyone was injured in the incident this afternoon.