A teenage boy armed with a shotgun was subdued by passengers on a Jetstar flight just before its departure from Avalon Airport, near Melbourne. Events unfolded when the 17-year-old, who allegedly breached security measures, boarded the aircraft carrying a firearm, aiming to take control of the plane.
Teenager Arrested After Armed Incident on Australian Flight
Teenager Arrested After Armed Incident on Australian Flight
A 17-year-old was apprehended for attempting to hijack a flight in Australia as passengers bravely intervened.
The 17-year-old suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, faces multiple charges including unlawfully taking control of an aircraft, endangering safety, and creating a bomb hoax. Authorities reported that he bypassed security protocols by climbing over a fence leading to the airfield. As the plane filled with 160 passengers prepared for its journey to Sydney, vigilant passengers noticed the armed teenager and quickly intervened, successfully overpowering him before any shots were fired.
Footage from the scene shows a passenger restraining the assailant while a ground crew member and a pilot disposed of tools and the shotgun. Victoria Police praised the courage of those involved in apprehending the teenager, describing the episode as potentially terrifying for those on board.
Superintendent Michael Reid shared that investigation efforts also included searching a nearby car and two bags linked to the suspect. He remarked on the ongoing discussions with counterterrorism officials, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the motive behind the young man’s armed intrusion.
Barry Clark, a witness and passenger, recounted the bravery required to disarm the young man while noting his airport worker-like attire and agitated behavior. Fortunately, no injuries resulted from the incident, and Jetstar officials expressed gratitude to the customers who assisted in managing the alarming situation. Avalon Airport has since resumed normal operations following the event.
Footage from the scene shows a passenger restraining the assailant while a ground crew member and a pilot disposed of tools and the shotgun. Victoria Police praised the courage of those involved in apprehending the teenager, describing the episode as potentially terrifying for those on board.
Superintendent Michael Reid shared that investigation efforts also included searching a nearby car and two bags linked to the suspect. He remarked on the ongoing discussions with counterterrorism officials, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the motive behind the young man’s armed intrusion.
Barry Clark, a witness and passenger, recounted the bravery required to disarm the young man while noting his airport worker-like attire and agitated behavior. Fortunately, no injuries resulted from the incident, and Jetstar officials expressed gratitude to the customers who assisted in managing the alarming situation. Avalon Airport has since resumed normal operations following the event.
