Media Release: Man charged for assaulting passenger during flight from Manila

A 36 year-old Kiama man has been charged by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) for assaulting a passenger on-board a flight from Manila to Sydney last night (Friday, 22 August).

It is alleged the 36-year-old assaulted another passenger unknown to him, punching him multiple times in the face while he was attempting to sleep. On the third strike, the passenger tried to block the strikes and yelled for crew assistance.

The victim sustained multiple injuries, including abrasions and lacerations to his face. His injuries were attended to by a doctor on-board.

AFP officers on the flight detained the 36-year-old until the plane landed at Sydney Airport.

Manager Aviation Michael Chew is warning passengers of the consequences of behaving violently on flights.

“The AFP will not tolerate this type of behaviour. Aviation safety is a serious matter, and abusive behaviour poses a serious risk to the travelling public,” Commander Chew said.

“Those who behave violently on-board aircrafts can expect to be charged.”

The man has been charged by the AFP with:

• Assault occasioning actual bodily harm contrary to section 23 (1) of the Crimes Act (ACT) 1900

• Obstruct territory official contrary to section 361 of the Criminal Code Act (ACT) 2002.

The man has been bailed to reappear in Downing Local Court on 30 September.