17-year-old remanded in custody on multiple charges.
Detectives from Victoria Police Crime Command have charged a 17-year-old boy following an alleged armed incident on a commercial flight at Avalon Airport on Thursday afternoon.
Superintendent Michael Reid told reporters that the teenager, acting alone, had entered the airport through a hole in a security fence before making his way to the plane and walking up the stairs. However, once inside the aircraft, he was quickly overpowered by several passengers.
“No doubt this would have been a very terrifying incident for the passengers of that plane, and Victoria Police really commend the bravery of the passengers who were able to overpower that male,” Superintendent Reid said.
Police confirmed that the youth was carrying a loaded shotgun at the time. Superintendent Reid described the situation as “very concerning,” highlighting the ease with which an individual was able to approach an aircraft while armed.
Authorities later located two bags and a vehicle belonging to the teenager. The Victoria Police Bomb Response Unit was called to the scene as a precaution to remove and assess the bags.
The 17-year-old, from the Ballarat region, was interviewed by detectives and subsequently charged with multiple offences, including:
• Unlawfully taking control of an aircraft
• Endangering safe operation of an aircraft
• Endangering the safety of an aircraft
• Dangerous goods on an aircraft
• Threat to the safety of an aircraft
• Bomb hoax
• Possessing a firearm
• Traffic-related offences
He was remanded in custody and is set to appear at a children’s court at a later date.
Jetstar issued a statement shortly after the incident, confirming they were working with police to “urgently understand what has occurred.”
“The safety of our passengers and crew is our number one priority, and we can confirm there are no reported injuries,” a Jetstar spokesperson said.
Avalon Airport chief executive Ari Suss later confirmed that the airport had reopened and reassured the public that security measures had been strengthened.
“We want to reassure the public that the safety of our passengers, staff, and community remains our highest priority,” he said.
“As part of our ongoing commitment to security, we have implemented further measures across the airport, including within the terminal and surrounding areas. We continue to work closely with authorities to ensure a safe and secure environment for all travellers.”
Suss also advised that passengers requiring access to the Melbourne Avalon Airport car park could now enter via Beach Road and urged travellers to check with Jetstar for any flight updates.
Police have urged anyone with information about the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
