Large Transport; Low Wing; 2 Turbojet Eng
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Communication Breakdown; Distraction; Time Pressure; Workload
Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural FAR; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Security; Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event Passenger Misconduct
General Police / Security Involved
Human Factors; Procedure
Law enforcement was requested due to unruly passengers (4) seated in first class. The lead flight attendant requested a level 1 and advised me that alcohol was involved. After block in and the jetway was up to the aircraft the seat belt sign was turned off and the passengers started to get out of their seats. As the aircraft was being deplaned the offending passengers were identified to law enforcement offices at the L-1 door. I went out on the jetway to speak with the officers. The officer advised me that he needed to debrief the F/A now because he could not detain these people without a reason. I advised the officer if he could wait until the deplaning was completed because she was required to stay on the aircraft until all passengers were off. The officer continued insisting that he debrief her now or he was going to release the offending passengers. I then asked the officer if he would talk to her on the aircraft and he agreed. However; the lead F/A refused to talk to him until deplaning was completed. The officer continued to insist that he talk to her. In light of recent events I did not want this to escalate any further. So I went back on the aircraft and noticed that there were only 20 or so passengers left on board. I asked the FA if she would go onto the jetway and talk to the officer. She advised me that I needed to take responsibility for this; and I told her I would.I am aware of the minimum crew requirements; but I felt I needed to obey a law enforcement request. I had another FA in place to manage the R-1 door and I remained at the front of aircraft to assist if needed. I felt between a rock and a hard place; so I made this decision because I felt I could maintain the required level of safety for my passengers.
Air carrier Captain reported law enforcement met the aircraft on arrival due to unruly passengers.