Cairns man charged with assault on Perth Airport worker after being ejected off plane

Hannah Cross
The Nightly
The man was allegedly swearing near other passengers, including families with children, after being removed from the flight.
The man was allegedly swearing near other passengers, including families with children, after being removed from the flight. Credit: Justin Benson-Cooper/The West Australian

A Cairns man has been charged with assaulting an airline worker at Perth Airport.

It is understood Australian Federal Police were called in when the 45-year-old became aggressive after he was removed from a flight bound for Brisbane because he was drunk.

He allegedly lunged at an airline worker while being removed from the flight, hitting them in the groin area.

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The man was allegedly swearing near other passengers, including families with children, after being removed from the flight.

AFP officers spoke to the man and warned him about his behaviour but he allegedly continued to act in a disorderly manner.

He was arrested and charged with one count each of common assault and disorderly behaviour in a public place.

The maximum penalty for each offence is 18 months in prison and an $18,000 fine.

AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Peter Brindal said there was zero tolerance for violent or abusive behaviour at Australia’s airports — especially towards staff.

“Airline staff and other travellers should not be subjected to violence or other bad behaviour when at the airport,” he said.

“The AFP is committed to working closely with the airline industry to intervene if anyone’s behaviour interferes with the safety of the public in or around an airport.

“Everyone has the right to travel safely, and airline staff do not need to deal with abusive or violent behaviour. The AFP will not hesitate to charge those who commit criminal offences through their poor behaviour at airports.”

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