A Western Sydney man, 46, accused of being intoxicated and abusive on an international flight is due to appear in Downing Centre Local Court today (27 February, 2023).
The AFP responded to a request to meet the flight at the arrivals gate at Sydney International Airport on 2 February, 2023.
Police officers then arrested the man and escorted him from the International terminal when he allegedly began to swear at and abuse officers.
The man was charged with:
- One count of behaving in an offensive and disorderly manner in an aircraft, contrary to section 256aa(1) of the Civil Aviation Regulations Act 1988 (Cth).
The maximum penalty for unruly behaviour on an aircraft is 50 penalty units at $275 per unit being a fine of up to $13,750.
AFP Acting Officer in Charge Daniel Hunt said the AFP was committed to supporting airport staff and ensuring all travellers experienced a safe journey from their departure through to their arrival at their destination.
"The AFP and our aviation partners have no tolerance for antisocial, violent or dangerous behaviour and we will take action," A/Officer in Charge Hunt said.
"Passengers, especially those travelling with children, expect to feel safe and should not have to witness intoxication, violence or bad behaviour."
From November 2021 to November 2022, the AFP responded to more than 800 aviation alcohol-related incidents at Australian designated airports, which include Sydney, Canberra, Darwin, Cairns, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth.
Most charges related to intoxication or offensive behaviour, possessing a prohibited weapon, carrying prohibited items, public disturbance and incidents relating to assault.
If you require a police presence at an airport, or wish to report an incident or provide information, please call the AFP's Airport Watch on 131 AFP (131 237).
