A 42-year-old Indian national, Kolathu James Leo, has been charged with multiple offenses after allegedly causing a mid-flight disturbance on a Singapore-bound Scoot flight from Sydney on February 27. He faces charges of criminal intimidation, using criminal force on a flight attendant, and being intoxicated on board, which endangered good order and discipline.
Kolathu was reportedly drunk during the flight when he began shouting, disturbing other passengers. He allegedly attempted to detach a seat pocket and struck the seat in front of him. As cabin crew intervened to de-escalate the situation, he is accused of grabbing a male flight attendant’s wrist and later threatening to kill him.
The situation escalated further, and despite efforts to calm him, Kolathu remained aggressive. According to police, it was only after being warned that the aircraft would return to Australia that he became compliant. To ensure the safety of passengers and crew, he was placed under restraints for the remainder of the flight.
Upon arrival at Changi Airport, Kolathu was arrested by officers from the Airport Police Division. The police confirmed his arrest in a statement on March 31, detailing the severity of the incident and the response from authorities.
Kolathu was officially charged in court on April 1. He is expected to plead guilty on April 22. If convicted of using criminal force against the flight attendant, he could face up to three months in jail and a fine of up to $1,500. For threatening to kill another person, he could be sentenced to up to 10 years in jail and fined. Additionally, for being intoxicated on board a flight and jeopardizing order, he faces a potential sentence of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $20,000.
Mid-flight disturbances pose a serious risk to aviation safety, and authorities treat such cases with strict enforcement. Airlines have protocols to manage disruptive passengers, including restraining individuals when necessary.
This case highlights the severe consequences of disorderly behavior during a flight. Airlines, law enforcement, and aviation authorities continue to enforce strict measures to deter such incidents. The outcome of Kolathu’s case will set a precedent for similar offenses in the future.
As the case progresses, authorities will likely review further evidence, including witness testimonies and in-flight surveillance footage. Meanwhile, passengers are reminded of the importance of adhering to flight regulations to ensure safe and smooth travel for all.
Comments
Post a Comment