Well, given the number of alternatives- such as the nicotine patches some airlines give out- I fail to see the connection.
I think the rise in air rage is more closely linked to the generally increasing tolerance of aggressive behaviour.
My view is that if a passenger is unable to contain their aggression because they haven't had a fag for a few hours, they shouldn't be allowed within a mile of an aircraft. We should have zero tolerance of air rage, irrespective of the cause; unfortunately, airlines continue to throw petrol on the fire by supplying alcohol.
Perhaps we should have a ban on carrying smokers on long-haul flights, now there's a good idea...
