m. , according to a Scoot Airlines spokesperson. After the woman sought help from cabin crew, she was moved to another seat, and Scoot staff monitored the suspect for the remainder of the journey.
Upon touchdown, the airline alerted the Australian Federal Police, who boarded the flight and escorted the man to an interview room, where he was subsequently arrested. The passenger involved was handed over to the relevant authorities upon arrival in Perth, the Scoot spokesperson said. The suspect was taken before the Perth Magistrates Court on Tuesday and has been remanded in custody until the next hearing on Friday.
He was charged with one count of sexual intercourse without consent, an offence carrying a maximum sentence of 12 years in prison, and also with an act of indecency without consent, punishable by up to seven years. Acting superintendent Peter Brindal emphasized that police have zero tolerance for criminal behaviour on aircraft or within Australian airports. According to Brindal, every passenger has the right to feel safe when travelling, especially when confined in an aircraft close to other passengers.
He encouraged anyone subjected to unwanted contact to alert authorities, such as airline staff, the AFP, or airport security, as soon as it is safely possible. No act of indecency on an aircraft or at an airport is appropriate, and any travellers who break the law will be dealt with swiftly, Brindal stated.