Drunk passenger allegedly assaults crew member on flight from Perth to Auckland
An intoxicated passenger allegedly assaulted a crew member on an international flight from Perth.
The New Zealand national allegedly refused to follow a staff member’s requests while travelling to Auckland on Wednesday morning.
The 23-year-old male passenger, who was allegedly intoxicated and disruptive, is then said to have assaulted the staff member — causing a slight injury — before he was restrained at the back of the aircraft.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.His alleged behaviour caused the flight to be diverted through Melbourne Airport, where Australian Federal Police boarded the aircraft and removed him.
“Any violence or anti-social behaviour in a confined space in the air would be distressing for other passengers and crew,” AFP Detective Superintendent Stephen Cook said.
“At the very least in this alleged incident, it disrupted everyone’s travel plans.
“Anti-social behaviour during a flight can pose a direct threat to the safety of the aircraft that is taken seriously by airlines and the AFP.”
The passenger was charged with one count of assaulting a crew affecting the performance of their duty, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment if convicted.
Originally published on 7NEWS
