Counter-terrorism investigators in Australia are probing a foiled plot to hijack a commercial passenger aircraft and force it to fly to the Middle East.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) confirmed that a suspect has been arrested and remains in custody following the incident. Authorities emphasised that there is no ongoing threat to aviation, but suppression orders limit what details can be disclosed.
According to security sources, the plan involved seizing control of a passenger jet at an Australian airport, then diverting it towards a hostile Middle Eastern nation. The alleged hijacker is believed to have intended multiple refuelling stops to complete the journey.
In a statement, the AFP said: “This matter is before the court, with open source reporting on this individual’s court case in July 2025. Suppression orders remain in place.”
Investigators are examining whether the plot was motivated by pro-Middle Eastern or anti-Semitic sentiments, though officials stressed there is no evidence linking any foreign state to the planning or knowledge of the attempted hijack.
The federal government has been briefed on the incident. The Department of Home Affairs has since ordered a sweeping review of security across major and regional airports, with meetings held between airport operators and security specialists to explore new protective measures.
