Source : Perth Now news
A man has been charged after allegedly attempting to open a Qantas plane door mid-flight.
Police allege Thomas Raymond Forster, 41, endangered the lives of passengers while on-board a Qantas flight from Karratha, about 1526km north of Perth, on Monday.
Mr Forster allegedly abused a passenger on flight QF1733, then pushed and kicked the seat in front of him.
When cabin crew intervened, he allegedly abused them.
When the plane was preparing to land, police allege he ignored the directions from cabin crew to fasten his seatbelt and attempted to open a passenger door while the aircraft was in flight.
Police officers escorted Mr Forster from the plane when it arrived at Perth Airport about 4.05pm on Monday.
The 41-year-old has been charged with causing harm to a Commonwealth official, endangering the safety of an aircraft, not complying with crew instructions and disorderly behaviour.
Australian Federal Police (AFP) Acting Superintendent Hayly Faithfull said they were committed to ensuring the safety of the travelling public and maintaining aviation security.
“There is no place for violence or disorderly behaviour on our planes or in our airports. Passengers, cabin crew, airline staff and our officers should not be subjected to anti-social behaviour,” she said.
“The AFP is committed to working closely with airline partners and airport authorities to respond to incidents when they occur, and to take appropriate action where behaviour may be considered to be in breach of the law.”
Mr Forster was granted bail in the Perth Magistrates Court on Tuesday and the matter was adjourned until November 27.
