A Cairns man is set to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court today (20 January 2025), charged with allegedly causing a mid-air disturbance that forced a Brisbane to Perth flight to turn back as a safety precaution.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) were called to assist on 10 December 2024 after the 38-year-old allegedly behaved aggressively towards fellow passengers during the domestic flight.
AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Natalie Scott confirmed the incident delayed the flight by two hours.
“Bad behaviour on planes or in terminals is not only disrespectful to passengers and airline staff, it can pose safety risks,” Det a/Supt Scott said.
“Delays can also lead to passengers missing connecting flights and keeping friends and family waiting at the airport.”
Police allege the man was intoxicated, touched passengers without their consent, and banged on the toilet walls twice, prompting the captain to return the flight to Brisbane Airport.
AFP officers removed the man from the plane and charged him with one count of behaving in an offensive and disorderly manner under Civil Aviation Safety Regulations, an offence carrying a maximum fine of $8065.
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