The AFP is calling for restraint from drinking while flying. Photo: stock
Federal police have a message for airline passengers — cut back on the drinking before you fly these summer holidays.
The Australian Federal Police is promising to be highly visible at major airports and wants passengers to be restrain their drinking while waiting for flights or while flying.
AFP Aviation Commander Craig Bellis said the AFP had to respond to more than 400 incidents involving drunk persons at airports or on aircraft this year.
He said in 2024, 419 people were charged with 574 offences including drugs, violence and theft.
“A number of these people charged were affected by alcohol …” Cmdr Bellis said.
“We know people are ready to wind down as we head into the holidays; however, we are encouraging people to think about whether they need that extra drink.
“Don’t change your destination because of poor choices. Your holiday will be much nicer than a holding cell,” he said.
He pointed out that assaulting a flight crew member carries a maximum penalty of 20 years jail.
The AFP handles security at nine airports: Gold Coast, Cairns, Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane, Darwin, Perth, and Adelaide. As of November 30, the AFP filed 169 criminal charges at Melbourne then Perth (128), Sydney (90), Brisbane (71), Gold Coast (59), Adelaide (24), Darwin (17), Cairns (14) and Canberra (2) airports.
Com Bellis is urging the travelling public to remain patient especially when faced with unexpected delays .
“We have seen examples of unacceptable behaviour by travellers on aircraft and at airports,” Cmdr Bellis says.
“People who engage in antisocial behaviour should understand this not only impacts their family holiday plans — with potential travel bans enforced — but also that of hundreds of other people if they cause a flight to be delayed or cancelled.”
PREPARATIONS
Australian Airports Association CEO Simon Westaway says it is important for travellers to prepare for the end-of-year holiday rush particularly with some terminals undergoing upgrades.
“There are billions of dollars’ worth of critical infrastructure upgrades now underway at many local airports and the necessary construction works could change the journey of passengers through terminals,” he says.
“We simply ask all travellers to plan ahead, be patient and respectful to hard-working aviation staff and be considerate of others.”
ABF Superintendent Operations and Planning East Geoff Quinn also urged patience in dealings with airport staff and Border Force officers.
“At Sydney International Airport during this period, ABF officers can be processing upwards of 50,000 passengers daily, which can from time to time result in disruptions and delays,” Supt Quinn said.
“The ABF has the capacity to surge additional officers to airports across the country to accommodate peak periods, and to deal with any issues which may arise.
“We encourage travellers who are either leaving Australia for the festive season or entering the country to ensure all their visa requirements and applications have been followed, any incoming passenger cards are filled out promptly, and to always show courtesy and respect to fellow travellers and airport staff.”
The AFP wants the public to call Airport Watch on 131 237 if they see or hear anything unusual at these airports.
