Media Release
SA man charged over alleged offensive and disorderly behaviour at Sydney Airport
A South Australian man who allegedly disrupted a flight from Sydney Airport is expected to appear in Downing Centre Local Court today (25 March, 2026) charged with offensive and disorderly behaviour.
The man, 23, came to police attention on 3 February, 2026, after his carry-on bag was x-rayed and allegedly found to contain cat-shaped knuckle dusters.
The AFP removed the item, and the man was served a court attendance notice to face the charge of possessing a prohibited weapon without a permit, contrary to section 7(1) of the Weapons Prohibition Act 1998 (NSW).
AFP assistance was later requested by an airline after the man, who had boarded a flight to Adelaide, allegedly disrupted a pre-flight safety briefing by yelling, swearing and verbally abusing cabin crew and other passengers.
The man allegedly refused to follow cabin crew instructions and continued to interrupt the safety briefing.
The AFP boarded the aircraft and escorted the man off the flight.
The man was charged with:
- One count of interference with crew while in an aircraft, contrary to section 24(1)(b)(i) of the Civil Aviation Act 1988 (Cth). The maximum penalty for this offence is two years’ imprisonment.
- One count of offensive and disorderly behaviour on aircraft, contrary to section 91.525 of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998 (Cth). The maximum penalty for this offence is a $11,100 fine.
- One count of failure to comply with safety instructions given by cabin crew, contrary to section 91.580 of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998 (Cth). The maximum penalty for this offence is a $16,500 fine.
AFP Detective Acting Inspector James McMillan said the AFP was committed to ensuring the safety of passengers, airline staff and the broader public at Sydney Airport and on flights.
“Disruptive, abusive or disorderly behaviour on aircraft will not be tolerated, and no passengers or aviation workers should be subjected to conduct that compromises their safety or wellbeing,” Det a/Insp McMillan said.
“The AFP works closely with airline partners and airport authorities to respond to incidents when they occur, and to take appropriate action where behaviour is alleged to breach the law.”
Stop and think. A safe journey starts with you
Every piece of information you provide could be the key to identifying and preventing a threat at our airports. That's why the AFP is asking you to adopt the; "See it. Hear it. Report it." approach.
Behaviours to report include:
- Taking photos of security cameras, screening, or perimeter fencing
- Avoiding screening
- Leaving bags unattended
- Loitering
- Concealing identity
- Exhibiting erratic behaviour
If you see it or hear it, report it to Airport Watch at 131 237 (131 AFP).
You can make a difference!
