On March 6, 2025, a 17-year-old male armed with a shotgun was overpowered by passengers and crew after breaching security and boarding a Jetstar flight at Avalon Airport, near Melbourne, Australia.
Incident Details
The teenager, dressed in high-visibility clothing resembling that of airport ground staff, gained access to the tarmac by breaching a security fence. He then approached the Sydney-bound Jetstar aircraft, which was carrying approximately 150 passengers.
As he attempted to board the plane via the front stairs, passengers noticed the firearm and promptly intervened. Barry Clark, a former professional boxer, was among those who tackled the teenager, disarming him and restraining him until law enforcement arrived.
Security Breach and Response
The suspect reportedly entered the airport premises through a hole in the perimeter fence, bypassing standard security protocols. This significant security lapse has raised concerns about the effectiveness of current measures at regional airports.
Victoria Police Superintendent Michael Reid commended the bravery of the passengers and crew, stating that their quick actions likely prevented a more severe incident. No injuries were reported among passengers or crew members.
Legal Proceedings
The teenager has been charged with multiple offenses, including unlawfully taking control of an aircraft, endangering the safe operation of an aircraft, carrying dangerous goods, making a bomb hoax, and possessing a firearm. He appeared in a children’s court, where he did not apply for bail. The case has been adjourned to March 21.
Airport Operations and Security Review
Following the incident, Avalon Airport temporarily suspended operations to conduct a thorough security assessment. Jetstar Airways expressed gratitude towards the passengers and crew for their courageous actions and confirmed that they are cooperating fully with authorities to investigate the breach.
The Australian Federal Police Association has called for a comprehensive review of security protocols at regional airports to prevent similar incidents in the future.
This event underscores the critical importance of robust security measures and the potential impact of vigilant passengers and crew in ensuring aviation safety.
