A tense scene unfolded at Avalon Airport in Australia when a 17-year-old armed with a shotgun attempted to take over a Jetstar flight, only to be overpowered by courageous passengers and crew before takeoff.
Teenager with Shotgun Overpowered by Passengers on Jetstar Flight
Teenager with Shotgun Overpowered by Passengers on Jetstar Flight
Passengers act heroically as armed teen is subdued on Melbourne-bound airplane.
On Thursday afternoon, a teenage boy managed to breach a security fence and access the tarmac, leading him to a Jetstar flight operating from Avalon Airport near Melbourne. As the plane prepared to take off toward Sydney with 160 passengers onboard, the youth was seen entering while holding a shotgun and ammunition. His actions quickly caught the attention of several vigilant passengers who saw him approach the front steps of the aircraft.
Immediately, multiple passengers took swift action, overpowering the armed teen and restraining him before he could cause harm. Eyewitnesses reported their terror during the incident, with one passenger recalling an agitated demeanor from the suspect, who was dressed similarly to airport personnel. Video footage captured the moment the teen was pinned down by three individuals, while a pilot kicked the shotgun away to ensure safety.
Victoria Police responded promptly, confirming that the 17-year-old would face eight charges, including unlawfully taking control of an aircraft and endangering passenger safety. Authorities emphasized that they were collaborating with counterterrorism units, though the motive behind the teen's actions remains unclear.
No injuries were reported among passengers, who expressed their relief at escaping the situation unscathed. The incident prompted a thorough investigation, including a bomb specialist's examination of a nearby vehicle and bags associated with the suspect.
Jetstar acknowledged the distressing nature of the incident and commended the quick thinking of its crew and passengers in managing the situation. Avalon Airport has since reopened following the heightened security measures.
Immediately, multiple passengers took swift action, overpowering the armed teen and restraining him before he could cause harm. Eyewitnesses reported their terror during the incident, with one passenger recalling an agitated demeanor from the suspect, who was dressed similarly to airport personnel. Video footage captured the moment the teen was pinned down by three individuals, while a pilot kicked the shotgun away to ensure safety.
Victoria Police responded promptly, confirming that the 17-year-old would face eight charges, including unlawfully taking control of an aircraft and endangering passenger safety. Authorities emphasized that they were collaborating with counterterrorism units, though the motive behind the teen's actions remains unclear.
No injuries were reported among passengers, who expressed their relief at escaping the situation unscathed. The incident prompted a thorough investigation, including a bomb specialist's examination of a nearby vehicle and bags associated with the suspect.
Jetstar acknowledged the distressing nature of the incident and commended the quick thinking of its crew and passengers in managing the situation. Avalon Airport has since reopened following the heightened security measures.
