Victorian man charged over alleged unauthorised radio transmissions to aircraft at Melbourne Airport
A man has been charged after allegedly broadcasting false mayday recordings to commercial aircraft in Victoria.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) began investigating illegal radio interference at Melbourne Airport in September after receiving a report about someone interfering with radio transmissions of commercial aircraft.
The individual was broadcasting “various chants and false mayday recordings” the AFP said.
Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.
Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.On Saturday police executed a search warrant on Saturday at a home in Lower Plenty.
AFP officers located and seized four handheld radios and equipment allegedly used to transmit the interference.
This included two mobile phones that had recordings of chants and mayday messages.
The occupant of the home, a 45-year-old man, was arrested and charged with a series of offences relating to the unauthorised radio interference.
AFP Detective Superintendent Simone Butcher said the offences were “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,” Butcher said.
“Anyone who attempts to compromise the safety of the travelling public, through false or unauthorised access to its operations and equipment, will be caught and brought before the courts.”
The man will face the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Tuesday.
