Man arrested for trying to open doors on KL-Sydney flight

 

The suspect was arrested at the Sydney Airport upon his arrival from Kuala Lumpur, according to the Australian federal police. (EPA Images pic)

PETALING JAYA: 

A Jordanian national was arrested upon arrival on a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Sydney yesterday, for endangering the safety of an aircraft and assaulting a member of the cabin crew.

In a statement today, the Australian federal police said the 46-year-old man had attempted to open two emergency exit doors on the aircraft during the flight.

“The man is alleged to have attempted to open the rear emergency exit door of the aircraft during the flight. He was subsequently escorted to a seat in the middle of the aircraft by airline staff.

“However, it is further alleged that he then attempted to open the middle emergency exit door,” the statement said.

It added that the man was then restrained by the cabin crew and passengers, during which he allegedly assaulted a cabin crew member.

Australian police said the man will be charged with two counts of endangering the safety of an aircraft and one count of assaulting cabin crew, at the Parramatta local court today.

According to the police, the offences each carry a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment.

“The actions of this man could have had tragic consequences, and passengers and airplane staff should not have to put up with unruly, violent, or dangerous behaviour on flights,” said detective Davina Copelin of the Australian federal police.

“We will not hesitate to take action against people who engage in criminal behaviour on airplanes, especially where this behaviour has the potential to endanger the safety of passengers, crew or the flight itself.” - FMT