NSW man charged in WA over incident on domestic flight
A man who was aggressive and obstructive towards AFP officers when they took him into custody after he vaped and illegally consumed alcohol on a plane has been fined $1500 by the Perth Magistrates Court.
The man, 42, was convicted and fined during his first court appearance yesterday (16 October, 2023) over the incident that started on a flight from Melbourne to Perth on Sunday.
AFP officers met the plane when it landed at Perth Airport after airline crew reported the man, from NSW, had been disorderly during the flight, vaping and drinking his own supply of alcohol.
The man was taken off the plane without incident but he was disorderly on the tarmac and obstructed officers by acting in a belligerent and aggressive manner, as well as refusing to provide personal details.
He was arrested and refused police bail and was put before court yesterday, where he was issued $1500 in fines.
AFP Superintendent Peter Hatch said the AFP supported the airline industry to ensure all travellers experienced safe journeys.
“The AFP and our aviation partners have no tolerance for antisocial, violent or dangerous behaviour,” Superintendent Hatch said. The community can rest assured we will take action in these circumstances.
“Passengers, especially those travelling with children, expect to feel safe when they are confined in enclosed spaces and should not have to witness bad behaviour.”
The man was convicted of:
- Disorderly behaviour in a public place, contrary to section 74A(2)(a) of the Criminal Code Act 1913 (WA);
- Obstructing public officers, contrary to section 172(2) of the Criminal Code Act 1913 (WA);
- Consuming alcohol on an aircraft without permission, contrary to section 91.780(1) of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations; and
- Smoking on an aircraft when directed not to, contrary to section 91.530(1)(b) of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations.
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).
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