Virgin Australia Passenger Arrested After Running Naked Through Cabin and Knocking Over Crew

A passenger on a Virgin Australia flight from Perth to Melbourne was arrested after allegedly running naked through the cabin and knocking down a flight attendant. The incident occurred on May 27, 2024, causing the flight to return to Perth.

Returning Back to Perth

Virgin Australia flight VA696, operated by a Boeing 737-800, departed Perth Airport (PER) at 19:34 local time. About an hour into the flight, the aircraft, registered as VH-YQG, began its return to Perth at around 20:36 while cruising at 38,000 feet. The plane landed safely at 21:57 on runway 21/03 and taxied to the gate without further incident. The crew did not declare an emergency during the return flight.

Disruptive Behavior

A Virgin Australia spokesperson confirmed that the flight was forced to return due to a disruptive passenger, but did not provide additional details. Upon landing, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) detained the passenger. The individual has been hospitalized and is scheduled for a hearing with the Perth Magistrates Court on June 14. Charges are still pending.

Potential Legal Consequences

The Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) indicates that unruly passengers can face multiple infringement notices for breaching civil aviation legislation. This can include significant fines and other penalties.

Alternative Flights

Flight VA696 was the penultimate flight of six scheduled Virgin Australia flights between Perth and Melbourne on May 27. All but the first flight of the day were operated by Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Virgin Australia also scheduled flights for the following day, all using Boeing 737-800s configured in Business, Economy X, Preferred seating, and Economy classes.