Two men were restrained by passengers and crew following a disruptive incident aboard a Qatar Airways flight from Melbourne to Doha. The altercation reportedly began Friday afternoon on flight VA7.
Witnesses described the situation as "terrifying" and "very scary." Accounts suggest that flight attendants were subjected to spitting and headbutting, and that the men made threats, including mentioning a gun. Up to seven people and zip ties were reportedly used to subdue each of the individuals.
Qatar Airways confirmed the physical altercation in a statement. "Both passengers were restrained and, upon arrival in Doha, were handed over to local authorities," the airline said. "The safety and wellbeing of our crew and passengers remain our highest priority."
Authorities met the plane upon its arrival in Doha. One witness told 3AW's Jacqueline Felgate that the flight attendants showed immense dedication, being "hands on for about 10 hours straight." Another witness described the events as "disgraceful what the poor flight attendants had to deal with."
The Australian Federal Police and Virgin Australia were contacted for comment.