Yes, you're right, and I think we all saw that when the "British citizen" was recently executed in China. The fact that the flight was going to Dubai is the pertinent fact, IMO, and that's what caught my attention. I suspect the 3 drunk Englishmen might actually be "Englishmen" and not Muslims, since Muslims aren't supposed to drink, right?
It’s a strange story. Although we have to remember, as far as Muslims and alcohol, Mohammed Atta and his buddies were known for visiting strip clubs and sucking up vodka in great quantities.
That said, they must have gotten on the plane drunk, because the plane was still at the gate and I’m not sure that Emirates air even serves alcohol. But all things considered, it’s a puzzling story...