Man charged for allegedly broadcasting chants, false maydays at Melbourne Airport
A man has been charged for allegedly broadcasting several chants and false mayday recordings at Melbourne Airport.
Australian Federal Police began an investigation earlier this month following a report that someone had interfered with the airport's aviation radio networks.
Officers linked a 45-year-old to the offending and searched his home in Lower Plenty, in north-east Melbourne.
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A man has been charged for allegedly broadcasting several chants and false mayday recordings at Melbourne Airport. Grimshaw Architects
During the search, officers allegedly found and seized four handheld radios and associated equipment used to transmit the interference, including two mobile phones with recordings of chants and mayday messages.
The man was arrested and charged with three counts relating to the alleged radio interference of an aircraft over two months.
His charges total to a maximum penalty of 27 years imprisonment.
AFP detective superintendent Simone Butcher said the offences were extremely serious.
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AFP detective superintendent Simone Butcher said the offences were extremely serious. Grimshaw Architects
"Aviation security is critical and appropriate procedures, processes and systems are in place to ensure the safety of aviation operations across Australian airports," the superintendent said.
"Anyone who attempts to compromise the safety of the travelling public, through false or unauthorised access to its operations and equipment, will be caught and brought before the courts."
The man will front Melbourne Magistrates Court today.
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