Man, 45, charged with hitting airline staff member in groin during alleged drunken assault at Perth Airport

A man has been charged with assault after allegedly hitting an airline worker in the groin, after being ordered off the plane.

A man has been charged with assault after allegedly hitting an airline worker in the groin during a drunken altercation at Perth Airport.

The passenger, 45, was arrested at Perth Domestic Airport on Friday night after airline staff notified federal police of his behaviour.

In a statement, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) said the man allegedly became aggressive after a decision was made to remove him from the Brisbane-bound flight due to his intoxication.

The man allegedly lunged towards an airline staff member, hitting him in the groin area with his hand.

It is further alleged he was swearing near other passengers, including families with children.

A man has been charged with assaulting an airline worker after allegedly hitting a staff member in the groin at Perth Airport. Picture: NewsWire / Kelly Barnes

The man was warned about his behaviour, but allegedly continued acting in a disorderly manner.

He has since been charged with one count each of common assault and disorderly behaviour in a public place, and appeared before Perth Magistrates Court on Saturday.

The maximum penalty for each of these offences is 18 months imprisonment and an $18,000 fine.

AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Peter Brindal said there was zero tolerance for violent or abusive behaviour, especially towards staff at airports.

“The AFP is committed to working closely with the airline industry to intervene if anyone’s behaviour interferes with the safety of the public in or around an airport,” he said.

Originally published as Man, 45, charged with hitting airline staff member in groin during alleged drunken assault at Perth Airport