A New Zealand national is expected to appear in Broadmeadows Magistrates Court today (24 October, 2024) charged with allegedly assaulting a crew member on board an international flight.
The AFP received a report early yesterday morning (23 October, 2024) about an allegedly intoxicated and disruptive passenger on a flight from Perth to Auckland, New Zealand.
Flight crew alleged the man, 23, refused to comply with their requests and allegedly assaulted a crew member, causing the worker a slight injury.
The flight was diverted to Melbourne Airport to enable AFP officers to board the aircraft and remove the passenger, who was restrained at the back of the aircraft.
The man was charged with one count of assaulting crew affecting the performance of their duty, contrary to section 21 of the Crimes (Aviation) Act 1991 (Cth).
The offence carries a maximum penalty of 20 years' imprisonment.
AFP Detective Superintendent Stephen Cook said the incident caused the flight to be delayed.
"Any violence or anti-social behaviour in a confined space in the air would be distressing for other passengers and crew. At the very least, in this alleged incident it disrupted everyone's travel plans," Det-Supt Cook said.
"Anti-social behaviour during a flight can pose a direct threat to the safety of the aircraft that is taken seriously by airlines and the AFP."
The AFP provides aviation security at nine major airports in Australia.
Anyone who sees suspicious behaviour at an Australian airport can call Airport Watch on 131 237.
