In a troubling incident that has unsettled many, a person has been apprehended and banned from flying with major airlines after an altercation at a busy airport.

The event, which involved an attack on another passenger, has drawn widespread criticism and renewed concerns about safety in public spaces.

Authorities are reviewing the incident as discussions about stricter security measures gain momentum.


The altercation occurred around 4 pm on a seemingly ordinary Tuesday in the bustling departures terminal of Sydney International Airport.

According to an eyewitness account shared on GOLD 101.7’s Jonesy & Amanda, the assailant, described as a 'gentleman of a large nature,' delivered a punch to the elderly man's stomach, pressing him against a window.

'A gentleman has come into the airport, of a large nature, and punched a 90-year-old in the stomach, right up against a window,' James, the bystander, said.


'And then a very brave Qantas staff [member] approached the gentleman to try and settle it down.'

'He got head butted in the head by this guy. I believe there was also a couple other people as well.'

James recounted how it took the collective effort of 10 passengers to subdue the assailant and bring him to the ground.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) swiftly responded to the scene, arresting a 37-year-old New Zealand national for the alleged assault of three individuals at the airport.

The AFP's statement on Wednesday detailed the charges against the man, including two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and one count of common assault under the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW).

These serious offences carry maximum penalties of five and two years' imprisonment.

Following a mental health assessment, the man was taken into custody and is slated to appear in Downing Centre Local Court.

In the interim, he has been refused bail, reflecting the gravity of the charges against him.

The Qantas spokesperson's statement to news.com.au emphasised the airline's unwavering commitment to the safety of its staff and customers, declaring a zero-tolerance stance on abusive or violent behaviour.

'The customer has been issued with a no fly ban which applies to both Qantas and Jetstar flights.' the spokesperson said.


The staff member who bravely stepped in to assist the elderly victim sustained minor injuries, which were promptly attended to by paramedics on site.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by airline employees, who often find themselves on the front lines of unpredictable and dangerous situations.

Sydney Airport Police Commander Davina Copelin echoed the sentiment of zero tolerance for anti-social and violent conduct, asserting the right of the community and airline workers to feel secure within Australian airports.

The AFP's close collaboration with the airline industry ensures that any aggressive or violent behavior is met with immediate and decisive action.

This alarming episode at Sydney International Airport has sparked a conversation about the importance of vigilance, the bravery of bystanders and staff members in crises, and the need for robust measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.


It's a stark reminder that while air travel connects us to the world, it also exposes us to the unpredictable nature of human behavior.

In other news, a man was charged with assaulting an airline worker at Perth Airport after being removed from a flight for intoxication.

The 45-year-old from Cairns allegedly became aggressive and struck the worker in the groin after being ejected. You can read more about it here.
Have you witnessed or experienced similar situations? How do you feel about the safety measures in place at airports? Join the conversation below and let us know.