Jetstar has enforced its policy on drunk passengers after 16 people were escorted from a flight in Melbourne last night, causing a lengthy delay.

The airline says a handful of passengers were drunk and disruptive as the plane sat on the tarmac at Melbourne airport about 8pm.

The Sydney-bound flight was delayed by 80 minutes as the disruptive passengers were marches off – some of their partners also choosing to join them.

In total, 16 passengers left the plane.

Australian federal police were notified.

In a statement, Jetstar acknowledged the actions of the group disrupted travel plans for other customers but it takes safety and security serious and has strict rules on alcohol use.