A man who allegedly ran naked down the aisle of a Virgin plane on its way from Perth to Melbourne, knocking a crew member to the floor and forcing the aircraft to turn around, has been arrested by federal police.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has confirmed officers responded to a request for assistance from airline staff travelling on flight VA696 from Perth to Melbourne on Monday night.
The flight took off from Perth Airport around 7:20pm local time and turned back less than an hour later due to a “disruptive passenger on board”, according to a Virgin Australia statement.
“We can confirm on Monday 27 May, VA696 Perth to Melbourne, returned to Perth,” the statement read.
“On arrival in Perth, the aircraft was met by the Australian Federal Police and the disruptive guest was offloaded.”
It’s understood staff on board responded appropriately and the plane landed safely.
“The safety of our guests and crew is our top priority and we sincerely apologise to guests impacted,” Virgin Australia said.
The ABC understands nobody on board was injured during the incident, but the airline said it would not be commenting further given an investigation was underway.
Man transferred to hospital after arrest
On arrival back to Perth Airport just before 8pm local time, the man was arrested by the AFP.
An AFP spokesperson said it received the call for assistance from airline staff at Perth Airport and was prepared to respond.
“AFP officers arrested a man after he allegedly ran naked through the aircraft mid-flight and knocked a crew member to the floor,” an AFP spokesperson said.
“The man was transferred to hospital for assessment, where he remains.”
The AFP also said charges the man will face are yet to be finalised, but he is expected to be summonsed to appear in the Perth Magistrates Court on June 14.
The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
ABC News
