An Indian national has been charged after allegedly sexually assaulting a female passenger during a flight from Singapore to Perth.

The 52-year-old man is accused of committing “non-consensual sexual acts” against the woman while seated next to her on the international flight on 13 April 2026, according to the Australian Federal Police.

The woman alerted airline staff during the flight, prompting crew members to move her to another seat for her safety.

Staff then monitored the man for the remainder of the journey and notified authorities ahead of landing.

Upon arrival at Perth Airport, AFP officers boarded the aircraft and escorted the man off for questioning.

AFP Acting Superintendent Peter Brindal said authorities had zero tolerance for criminal behaviour on aircraft. “Every passenger has the right to feel safe when travelling, especially when confined in an aircraft close to other passengers,” he said.

He urged anyone subjected to inappropriate or unwanted contact to report it immediately to airline staff or authorities. “No act of indecency on an aircraft or at an airport is appropriate, and any travellers who break the law will be dealt with swiftly,” he said.

The man has been charged with one count of sexual intercourse without consent and three counts of committing an act of indecency without consent under aviation laws.

The most serious charge carries a maximum penalty of 12 years’ imprisonment, while the indecency offences carry penalties of up to seven years each.

The AFP and Western Australia Police Force Sex Assault Squad are jointly investigating the incident.

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