A Thai national is expected to appear in the Sydney Downing Centre Local Court today (7 November, 2024) after being charged with an alleged assault on a flight from Wellington, New Zealand, to Sydney.
The man, 25, was arrested at Sydney International Airport yesterday (6 November, 2024) after airline staff notified the AFP of an alleged incident when passengers were disembarking the plane.
AFP will allege the man assaulted a passenger seated next to him after a bag landed on the man's head when passengers were unloading the overhead luggage compartment.
It is alleged the man became aggressive and struck the passenger in the face.
The AFP charged the man with one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, contrary to section 59(1) of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW).
This offence carries a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment.
AFP Acting Superintendent Damien Full said passengers and airline staff should not be subjected to aggressive or offensive behaviour anywhere in the airport or on a plane.
"The AFP has zero tolerance for violent or abusive behaviour," Acting Superintendent Full said.
"Aggressive action in an enclosed space can be extremely frightening for everyone.
"The AFP works closely with the airline industry to intervene if anyone's behaviour impacts the wellbeing of other passengers."
If you require a police presence at an airport, or wish to report an incident or provide information, please call the AFP's Airport Watch on 131 AFP (131 237).
