PERTH- Qantas (QF) removed a disruptive passenger from a Perth (PER) to Sydney (SYD) service after cabin crew requested police support.

Australian Federal Police met flight QF654 on arrival and escorted the individual from the aircraft without confirming any arrest or charges.

Qantas Disruptive Passenger Removed

The incident began when a male passenger displayed erratic behavior during the five-hour flight from Perth to Sydney. Cabin crew attempted to manage the situation and requested assistance from nearby passengers, who helped restrain the individual until landing.

The airline later confirmed that its crew acted in line with safety protocols and followed standard procedures for in-flight disturbances.

Australian Federal Police boarded the aircraft once it reached the gate at Sydney Domestic Airport. Officers removed the passenger for assessment and questioning. Authorities indicated that more information will be released once their review is complete.

Qantas reiterated that customer and crew safety remains its highest priority. The airline maintains a zero-tolerance stance toward disruptive or unsafe behavior on any of its flights. Both crew members and passengers involved in the restraint were acknowledged for their timely support during the event.

Despite the onboard disruption, the flight arrived as scheduled, and operations continued without delays. Qantas confirmed that the cabin crew followed established procedures to secure the cabin environment and ensure the safety of all passengers until landing.

Similar Incident

Air New Zealand (NZ) diverted a Boeing 787-9 operating from Perth (PER) to Auckland (AKL) after a passenger disturbance forced the crew to land in Melbourne (MEL). The flight continued to Auckland once the disruptive traveler was removed.

The crew initiated the diversion roughly three hours after departing Perth Airport, following standard safety procedures for onboard incidents.

Midflight Disruption Leads to Unplanned Stop

The aircraft, registered ZK-NZC, left Perth at 7:50 PM local time. The captain decided to divert to Melbourne when a passenger’s behavior escalated beyond what the crew could safely manage in flight. Local authorities met the aircraft on arrival and took the individual into custody.

The flight later departed Melbourne and landed in Auckland at 8:50 AM, arriving about 90 minutes behind schedule. The airline noted that the diversion was necessary to ensure the safety of passengers and crew, which remains its primary operational focus.

Air New Zealand’s Chief Operational Integrity and Safety Officer, Captain David Morgan, outlined the crew’s response and reaffirmed the airline’s zero tolerance for disruptive conduct. He also apologized to passengers affected by the delay and emphasized the stress such events cause for everyone onboard.

Rising Trend of Unruly Passenger Behavior

Air New Zealand recorded 200 cases of unruly behavior in December 2023. This figure represents one of the highest monthly totals since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

Morgan noted a rise in severity toward the end of the year, with more incidents involving verbal abuse, refusal to follow crew directions, and onboard disturbances.

The airline continues to follow strict response protocols that prioritize safety and minimize operational impact. Industry data shows that while most flights operate without issue, severe cases still force diversions or emergency landings, drawing public attention and raising questions about passenger conduct trends.

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