Jetstar passenger fined and ordered to cover fuel after forcing Perth-Sydney flight to turn back
A West Australian traveller has been fined and ordered to cover fuel costs for a flight that was turned around because of his bad behaviour.
The Sydney-bound Jetstar flight on September 25, 2023, was returned to Perth and required the pilot to dump fuel before it could land safely.
Airline staff called for help from the Australian Federal Police (AFP), accusing Wade Corbett, then aged 33, of being drunk and disruptive.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.He was charged with one count of disorderly behaviour on an aircraft and one count of failing to comply with instructions.
On Thursday, Corbett pleaded guilty to both charges in Perth Magistrates Court.
He was fined $9,000 and ordered to pay the airline’s flight fuel costs of $8630.
Passengers were left stranded when the flight was cancelled because its crew had reached their allowed operating hours.
They were given accommodation and boarded another flight to Sydney in the morning.
“This incident should serve as a warning that criminal behaviour on board can come at a heavy cost to the offender,” AFP Acting Superintendent Shona Davis said.
“It’s far simpler to obey the directions of airline staff than cause unnecessary issues, which can end up hitting you in the hip pocket.
“The AFP is committed to ensuring all travellers have a safe journey from their departure through to their arrival at their destination.”
At the time, Jetstar said the safety of crew and customers was a priority and “disruptive or abusive behaviour” would not be tolerated.
