Police have removed an Australian couple from a flight and charged them with an alleged drunken incident, in which a woman “grabbed and shook” another passenger.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has called for help after a couple on the Hobart to Sydney flight allegedly caused a disturbance.
The man, 45, and the woman, 53, were allegedly intoxicated and drinking the alcohol they had with them on the plane.
The woman allegedly grabbed and shook another passenger while leaving the bathroom on the Dec. 29 flight.
The pair were escorted off the flight by police officers and charged with one count each of failing to comply with cabin crew safety instructions and consuming alcohol not provided by the crew.
These crimes carry a maximum penalty of $13,750.
The woman was also charged with assault, which carries a sentence of two years in prison.
Last year there were more than 400 incidents involving drunk people at Australia’s main airports, Sergeant Luke Stockwell told AFP.
Australian Federal Police have been called for help after a couple on the Hobart to Sydney flight allegedly caused a disturbance. Sydney Airport is pictured.
“We urge travelers to be mindful of their behavior at airports this summer holiday – you don’t want to start the new year with a hefty fine or worse, behind bars,” he said.
‘Bad behavior at airports is not only disrespectful towards other travellers, airport workers and airline staff, it also poses a security risk and usually leads to more serious offences.
“The AFP is increasing patrols at major airports over the holidays and will not tolerate dangerous, disruptive or abusive behavior from travellers,” Sergeant Stockwell said.
The couple are due to appear at Downing Center Local Court in Sydney on Monday.
More to come…