Western Australia’s peak holiday rush was jolted on 30 December when a 25-year-old New Zealander allegedly smashed through a glass door at Perth Airport’s international terminal and ran toward the tarmac after being refused boarding for intoxication. The incident, detailed in a 2 January People Magazine report, triggered alarms and forced Australian Federal Police (AFP) officers to intercept the man before he reached any aircraft.
The AFP has charged the passenger with unauthorised entry to a secure airport area, an offence that carries fines up to AUD 15,650. He appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on 31 December; the matter has been adjourned.
![Security breach at Perth Airport after passenger denied boarding for intoxication]()
While no flights were delayed, the episode underscores persistent concerns about disruptive passengers and airside security. In September, a separate incident involving an allegedly drunk woman led to a diverted Sydney flight, prompting calls for tougher alcohol-service rules at airports.
Airport operator Perth Airport Pty Ltd said CCTV and alarm systems functioned as intended, but confirmed it is reviewing physical-barrier resilience. The Australian Airports Association reminded carriers that they can refuse boarding to intoxicated travellers under Civil Aviation Safety Regulation 256.
Corporate travel managers are advised to remind employees of zero-tolerance airline policies; any breach can void travel-insurance coverage and jeopardise future visa applications.
The AFP has charged the passenger with unauthorised entry to a secure airport area, an offence that carries fines up to AUD 15,650. He appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on 31 December; the matter has been adjourned.
While no flights were delayed, the episode underscores persistent concerns about disruptive passengers and airside security. In September, a separate incident involving an allegedly drunk woman led to a diverted Sydney flight, prompting calls for tougher alcohol-service rules at airports.
Airport operator Perth Airport Pty Ltd said CCTV and alarm systems functioned as intended, but confirmed it is reviewing physical-barrier resilience. The Australian Airports Association reminded carriers that they can refuse boarding to intoxicated travellers under Civil Aviation Safety Regulation 256.
Corporate travel managers are advised to remind employees of zero-tolerance airline policies; any breach can void travel-insurance coverage and jeopardise future visa applications.
Source: People Magazine
