A 34-year-old Perth woman is faced Perth Magistrates Court on 14 January, 2025 after allegedly assaulting Australian Federal Police (AFP) officers at Perth Airport following a reported episode of disorderly behaviour on a flight from Sydney.
The AFP responded to a request for assistance after a passenger allegedly became disruptive and refused to follow crew instructions during the flight. Officers met the plane at the gate on 13 January, 2025, and escorted the woman from the aircraft.
Police allege that while disembarking, the woman attempted to walk away and, when restrained, struck an officer’s forearm with a pen concealed under her clothing. A second officer was also allegedly struck in the face and neck with the pen during the incident. The woman was arrested and escorted off the tarmac.
An ambulance treated the injured officers, with one requiring hospitalisation at Royal Perth Hospital overnight before being discharged this morning.
The woman has been charged with multiple offences, including:
- Two counts of causing harm to a Commonwealth public official (maximum penalty: 13 years’ imprisonment);
- One count of obstructing a Commonwealth public official (maximum penalty: two years’ imprisonment); and
- One count of failing to comply with cabin crew safety instructions (maximum fine: $13,750).
AFP Acting Commander Murray Taylor reinforced the agency’s zero-tolerance approach to violent or disruptive behaviour at airports. “The AFP and its partners will swiftly and firmly respond to any antisocial, violent, or dangerous behaviour that threatens passengers, staff, or law enforcement,” he said.
“Passengers deserve to feel safe while travelling and should not have to endure intoxication, violence, or unruly behaviour.”
A Jetstar spokesperson echoed this stance, emphasising that passengers are required to follow crew instructions and adhere to safety procedures at all times.
“We will never tolerate disruptive behaviour onboard or in terminals and appreciate the AFP’s ongoing support in maintaining safety.”
The AFP encourages travellers to report suspicious activity through the Airport Watch hotline at 131 237, a critical tool for enhancing aviation security. Unusual behaviour includes:
- Recording or photographing sensitive areas;
- Displaying excessive interest in security procedures;
- Attempting unauthorised access to secure zones; and
- Acting strangely or raising suspicions.
Authorities reiterate their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all passengers and airport staff.
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