KUALA LUMPUR – A 45-year-old Australian resident who disrupted Malaysia Airlines flight MH122 yesterday is facing two charges following his behaviour that was caught on video.
The Australian Federal Police said the man has been charged with one count each of false statement about threat to damage an aircraft, and for not complying with cabin crew’s safety instructions.
The offences carry a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine of over A$15,000 (RM44,995), respectively.
He is expected to appear in Downing Centre Local Court, Sydney today.
The flight to Malaysia, which departed about 1pm (local time), returned to Sydney International Airport at 3.45pm.
During the flight, a male passenger allegedly became disruptive and claimed to have explosives on board. The federal police arrested the man without incident last night.
Last night, Malaysia Airlines said flight MH122 passengers would be transferred to the next available flight after obtaining clearance from the authorities.
The flight was carrying 199 passengers and 12 crew. – August 15, 2023