A teenager, charged with attempting to hijack a Jetstar flight while armed with a shotgun, is set to face new federal charges in a shocking incident that unfolded at Avalon Airport in Victoria earlier this month.
The 17-year-old, who is currently in custody, climbed through a hole in a fence at Avalon Airport before approaching the commercial flight, which was carrying approximately 160 passengers bound for Sydney, around 2:20 PM on March 6. He has been charged with four federal offenses, including assaulting a member of the airline crew, attempted hijack, and prejudicing the safe operation of an aircraft with the intent to kill. Additionally, he faces 12 state charges related to carrying out a bomb hoax and possessing a firearm.
According to police statements, the teenager allegedly boarded the flight, claiming to be in possession of explosives and reportedly stated, "I've got bombs in my bag," creating panic among passengers on board.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has indicated that this incident is under the purview of a counter-terrorism task force and further investigations are underway. The teenager may have communicated with foreign entities regarding the hijacking attempt, although the specifics of these communications are currently suppressed for national security reasons.
Legal proceedings against the teenager continue, with a children’s court hearing on March 21 confirming the addition of these federal charges. The nature of certain communications has been sealed, and documentation related to his vehicle has also been protected under a suppression order that lasts until June 2025.
Despite the serious nature of the allegations, the passengers onboard the flight remained unharmed thanks to the quick actions of those present. Among them was a sheep farmer from New South Wales, Barry Clark, who jumped into action to restrain the alleged hijacker. Clark has since been hailed as a national hero for his bravery during the harrowing incident.
Footage captured by passenger Daniel Defino illustrates the chaotic moments as Clark secured the teenager in a headlock, while the flight's pilot attempted to disarm the suspect. Defino recalled that during the struggle, the pilot managed to remove the shotgun barrel and kick aside its stock, effectively preventing a potential tragedy.
Clark, who has since received a lifetime of free flights from Avalon Airport as a token of appreciation, described the incident as frightening. "He was dead silent [and] there was no emotion in his eyes at all. He looked almost fake, it was so scary," Defino remarked, highlighting the tense atmosphere.
Passengers were promptly evacuated via the rear door of the aircraft following the incident, and bomb response officers arrived on the scene to neutralize any potential threats. Fortunately, there were no physical injuries reported as a result of the confrontation.
As the legal process unfolds, the community reflects on the bravery displayed by Clark and others who acted swiftly, ultimately ensuring the safety of their fellow travelers.
Looking ahead, the teenager is scheduled to appear in court again in April 2025 to face the additional charges, which now further complicate an already serious case.
The ramifications of this incident could extend beyond mere legal consequences, potentially igniting discussions around airport security and protocols concerning unauthorized access to restricted areas. The investigation remains ongoing, emphasizing the need for vigilance in safeguarding against similar threats in the future.
