A Perth flight to Melbourne was forced to turn back to Perth Airport after a passenger aboard became erratic and reportedly “bashed on the cockpit door”.
The flight took off about 7.20pm on Monday and was forced to return less than an hour later because of a “disruptive passenger”, a Virgin Australia spokeswoman said.
The passenger was then met by the Australian Federal Police and taken off the plane.
“We can confirm on Monday 27 May, VA696 Perth to Melbourne returned to Perth due to a disruptive passenger onboard,” the spokeswoman said.
“On arrival in Perth, the aircraft was met by the Australian Federal Police and the disruptive guest was offloaded.
“The safety of our guests and crew is our top priority and we sincerely apologise to guests impacted.”
The flight was cancelled after it disembarked at Perth Airport, with some passengers left stranded on Tuesday morning.
The incident is being investigated by the AFP.
A caller told radio station 3AW that a man became agitated on the flight and started banging on the cockpit door.
Flight data shows the plane barely made it over the Great Australian Bight before turning around, landing 30 minutes after take-off.
“A male passenger suddenly went bananas running up and down the aisle and bashing on the cockpit door,” the radio caller said.
“Two air marshals had to restrain and handcuff the individual until the flight landed.”
The apparent witness believed some travellers got on a later flight, though some were unable to get another seat.
More to come.