CANBERRA, ACT, April 15 -- Australian Federal Police issued the following media release:
A man and boy, both from Melbourne, have each been charged with using false details to board a domestic flight from Sydney to Melbourne.
The man, 29, and the boy, 15, boarded the aircraft in Sydney yesterday (14 April, 2026). As the aircraft was taxiing, the man and boy allegedly became verbally abusive towards airline staff after being instructed to take their seats.
Due to the pair's behaviour, the pilot returned the plane to the terminal and requested AFP assistance.
The AFP met the flight at the gate and escorted the pair from the flight.
When police attempted to identify the man and boy, they discovered the names on their boarding passes did not match the names on their personal identification.
They were each charged with one count of travelling using false identification information, contrary to section 376.4(2) of the Criminal Code (Cth). This offence carries a maximum penalty of 12 months' imprisonment.
The boy was refused bail and appeared in a New South Wales Children's Court today (15 April, 2026).
The man was granted bail and is expected to appear before Downing Centre Local Court on 11 May, 2026.
AFP Acting Inspector Craig Bruce said flying with false credentials was a serious offence as it was often done to evade law enforcement detection.
"Fraudulent use of identity documents can facilitate other criminal activity," a/Insp Bruce said
"It's important that airlines are provided the correct details of all passengers on board and the AFP works closely with airline staff and partners to identify and disrupt potential threats at our airports."
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
