Arrest over radio transmissions at Vic airports

Alleged unlawful interference with air traffic control and endangering the safety of aircraft at two Victorian airports has led to charges being laid against a 19-year-old Rockbank man.

There were 16 unauthorised radio transmissions at Melbourne Airport and Avalon Airport between 5 September and 3 November 2016, causing interference with air traffic control.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) led the investigation and was assisted by Victoria Police and the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).

The man was arrested by the AFP and charged with four counts of endangering the safety of aircraft contrary to Section 25(2)(b) of the Crimes (Aviation) Act 1991 (Cth) and one count of interference likely to endanger safety or cause loss or damage contrary to Section 194 of the Radiocommunications Act 1992 (Cth).

“The current security measures in place for the airline industry are robust, and the travelling public should be reassured we are treating this matter appropriately,” said the AFP’s acting Assistant Commissioner, Chris Sheehan.

“These incidents were thoroughly investigated by the AFP with the technical support of Airservices and the ACMA.

“The offences this 19-year-old man faces carry a maximum penalty of up to 20 years’ imprisonment.

“The AFP also acknowledges the close working relationship with Qantas and Virgin Australia Group and the assistance provided particularly during the early stages of the investigation,” he said.

The ACMA uses a range of technologies and techniques to investigate and locate the sources of unauthorised or interfering transmissions across the radio frequency spectrum.

The public are reminded that making unauthorised transmissions may constitute a serious offence under the Radiocommunications Act 1992 (Cth).

Airservices said there is no current threat to the safety and security of the travelling public as a result of these alleged radio transmissions in Victoria.

“Airservices worked closely with the AFP throughout this investigation to ensure the safety and security of the travelling public,” Airservices Southern Operations Manager Steven Clarke said.

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