The AFP has charged a Melbourne man for allegedly interfering with radio transmissions of commercial aircraft in Victoria.
The man, 45, is expected to appear in Melbourne Magistrates' Court today (23 September, 2024) to face three charges for alleged radio interference at Melbourne Airport over a two month period.
The AFP commenced an investigation in September, 2024, after receiving a report from the Australian Communications Media Authority (ACMA) about an individual using unauthorised access to aviation radio networks to broadcast various chants and false mayday recordings.
Investigators linked the man to the offending and executed a search warrant on Saturday (21 September, 2024) at his Lower Plenty residence.
During the search AFP officers located and seized four handheld radios and associated equipment allegedly used to transmit the interference, including two mobile phones with recordings of chants and mayday messages.
The man was arrested and charged with:
- One count of radio transmission capable of prejudicing the safe operation of an aircraft, with the intention of prejudicing the safe operation of that aircraft, contrary to subsection 19(1) of the Crimes (Aviation) Act 1991 (Cth). The maximum penalty for this offence is 20 years' imprisonment;
- One count of operating a radio communications device, namely, otherwise than as authorised by an apparatus licence, contrary to section 46(1) of the Radiocommunications Act 1992 (Cth). The maximum penalty for this offence is two years' imprisonment; and
- One count of using a transmitter, that interfered with radio communications in a way that was prejudicial to the safe operation of an aircraft, contrary to section 192(1) of the Radiocommunications Act 1992 (Cth). The maximum penalty for this offence is five years' imprisonment.
AFP Detective Superintendent Simone Butcher said the AFP and its aviation partners work collaboratively to ensure the safety of the travelling public.
"These offences are extremely serious. Aviation security is critical and appropriate procedures, processes and systems are in place to ensure the safety of aviation operations across Australian airports," Det Supt Butcher said.
"Anyone who attempts to compromise the safety of the travelling public, through false or unauthorized access to its operations and equipment, will be caught and brought before the courts."
