The unruly passenger was restrained and removed after causing disruption onboard. Video / Supplied
An “intoxicated” passenger who attempted to headbutt a flight attendant, resulting in the plane being diverted, has been ordered to pay $10,000 in compensation.
Swalyn Malaice Jackson Barton-Cookes, 23, was flying from Perth to Auckland on October 23, 2024 when he swore loudly “in an aggressive manner”and disrupted other passengers, court documents said.
After the cabin crew manager issued a verbal warning, Barton-Cookes grabbed his arm and attempted to headbutt the staff member multiple times.
The Australian Federal Police said he was given a six-month jail term, but released immediately due to time already spent in custody.
He was also ordered to pay the airline $10,824 in compensation.
Crew and other passengers were forced to restrain Barton-Cookes at the rear of the aircraft which was diverted to Melbourne Airport, landing about 1.50am on October 23.
He pleaded guilty on April 17, 2025 to two counts of assaulting the crew of an aircraft.
Outside of court following the initial charge, Barton-Cookes said he was embarrassed by the media attention.
Swalyn Malaice Jackson Barton-Cookes, 24, outside the Broadmeadows Magistrates Court after he was charged with assaulting flight crew aboard a flight from Perth to New Zealand on October 23. Picture / NewsWire / Liam Beatty
AFP Detective Superintendent Stephen Cook said airline staff deserved to feel safe in their workplace and not be subjected to violence and aggression from passengers.
“Antisocial behaviour during a flight can pose a direct threat to the safety of the aircraft, and in this instance, also inconvenience passengers on-board,” Cook said.
“The AFP works closely with the airline industry to intervene if anyone’s behaviour interferes with the safety of workers or the public in or around an airport, or on flights.”
