A 14-hour flight from Australia to the Middle East turned into a frightening ordeal after two male passengers allegedly made violent threats and claimed they had a gun.
The Virgin Australia flight, operated by Qatar Airways, left Melbourne for Doha on Friday, Sept. 11. According to passengers who spoke to local media, the two men appeared agitated from the beginning of the journey. They repeatedly left their seats, moved around the cabin and rummaged through their luggage.
About six hours before the plane was due to land, the situation reportedly escalated. The men allegedly began arguing and fighting and made threats toward people on board, including claims that they had a firearm. Witnesses also accused the men of becoming physically aggressive toward crew members.
Flight attendants then had to take control of the situation. Witnesses said the men were restrained in their seats using cable ties, with several people reportedly needed to hold each passenger down. One witness alleged that the men were headbutting and spitting at crew members during the struggle.
The ordeal reportedly continued for much of the remaining flight, creating what passengers described as a terrifying experience. Despite the disturbance, the aircraft continued toward Doha.
When the plane arrived at Hamad International Airport, authorities arrested the two men and took them into custody for further investigation. Qatar Airways confirmed that two male passengers had been involved in a physical altercation and said both were restrained before being handed over to local authorities.
The airline said the safety and well-being of passengers and crew remained its highest priority. Virgin Australia, Melbourne Airport and Hamad International Airport did not immediately provide further comment.
Authorities have not yet released more information about the men, including their identities or what may have prompted the alleged threats. The investigation remains ongoing.