What happened
On Thursday, 22 August 2024, an Airbus A320-232 registered VH-VFL and operated by Jetstar Airways arrived at Melbourne Airport from Sydney-Kingsford Smith International Airport. At approximately 12:00 pm local time, while the aircraft was parked at the terminal, a passenger unexpectedly opened the emergency exit door over the wing and deployed the evacuation slide.
The passenger exited the aircraft via the deployed slide while the aircraft remained stationary at the gate. Ground staff immediately apprehended the individual, and the Australian Federal Police subsequently arrested the passenger. The incident prompted a brief precautionary evacuation of nearby areas as a safety measure.
No injuries were sustained by other passengers, crew members, or ground personnel. The aircraft sustained no damage during the occurrence. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) was notified of the incident and is gathering information regarding the circumstances and motive behind the passenger's actions.