The pilot of Jetstar flight JQ989 was forced to turn back shortly after take-off yesterday afternoon after the man allegedly verbally abused the crew and ignored their directions while intoxicated.
After the flight arrived back in Perth, the 33-year-old was arrested by AFP officers and later charged with offensive or disorderly behaviour in aircraft, and failing to comply with safety instructions by cabin crew.
Each of those charges carries a maximum fine of $13,750.
"Airline staff are there to ensure the safety of passengers and they, along with every other passenger onboard, deserve to be treated with dignity and respect," AFP superintendent Peter Hatch said.
"Verbally abusing airline staff and failing to comply with their directions are serious offences. These matters are not something the AFP takes lightly."
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"Bad behaviour on board aircrafts, and in and around airports, impacts everybody's travel plans, including the hundreds of affected passengers onboard."
The flight to Sydney was cancelled as a result of the incident.
"The safety of our crew and customers is our first priority and we do not tolerate any disruptive or abusive behaviour on our aircraft," a Jetstar spokesperson said.
"We apologise to customers who were impacted by this disruption and thank them for their patience as our teams worked hard to provide overnight accommodation in Perth and replacement flights on Monday morning."
The man is due to face Perth Magistrates Court later on Monday.
