Canberra, September 2, 2025 — Australian authorities have arrested a man accused of plotting to hijack a commercial passenger jet and divert it to the Middle East, in what officials and aviation experts have described as a “bizarre” terror plan.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) confirmed that the suspect is in custody following a lengthy investigation involving multiple intelligence agencies. Officials emphasized there is no ongoing threat to the public.
“This matter is before the court, with open-source reporting on this individual’s court case in July 2025. Suppression orders remain in place,” the AFP said in a statement.
According to reporting by The Australian, the alleged scheme involved taking control of an aircraft at an Australian airport, forcing it to fly internationally, and making multiple refueling stops en route to the Middle East. Investigators are also probing whether antisemitic motives were linked to the plan.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been briefed on the case, while the Department of Home Affairs has met with airport owners and operators to review and reinforce aviation security protocols. Security has since been tightened across Australia’s major and regional airports.
Health Minister Mark Butler said the case underscored the seriousness of aviation threats: “Any report of a potential hijacking sends shivers down the spine.”
The investigation remains ongoing, with further details expected to emerge as court proceedings move forward under existing suppression orders.
