Passenger Exits Jetstar Flight via Emergency Door, Walks on Wing

Australian Federal Police (AFP) arrested an airline passenger on Thursday after the individual opened a commercial plane's emergency exit door, walked along a wing, and climbed down a jet engine to the tarmac.

A passenger aboard Jetstar flight JQ507, which departed earlier from Sydney, exited the aircraft via the emergency exit upon arrival at Melbourne Airport, officials reported.

Located in the capital of the Australian state of Victoria, in the southeastern part of the country, Melbourne Airport is an international hub. Jetstar, a subsidiary of Qantas – Australia's flag carrier – is a low-cost airline based in Melbourne.

According to Cam Beaman, a spokesperson for the airport, the aircraft was parked at the time of the incident.

Passenger Deploys Emergency Slide

Alana Grech, a Jetstar spokesperson, told USA TODAY that the plane had landed and was parked at a gate when the passenger opened the emergency exit door, automatically deploying the slide.

“The passenger exited via the emergency exit and walked along the wing before making his way down to the ground via the engine,” Grech said.

Arrest Made After Ground Incident

The passenger was immediately detained by staff and arrested by the Australian Federal Police (AFP).

“Melbourne Airport is proud of the exceptional response from ground crew, which meant there was no immediate danger to other passengers or airport staff,” Beaman said.

Officials did not release the passenger's name or origin.

“We thank our passengers for their patience and understanding while our team assisted the AFP to manage this incident,” Grech added.

Contributing: Eve Chen

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X @nataliealund.