A Qantas flight from Melbourne to Dallas was diverted to Tahiti over the weekend after a passenger allegedly bit a flight attendant during the journey. The aircraft was rerouted to Faa'a International Airport in French Polynesia following the mid-air incident.
The passenger, reportedly intoxicated, became aggressive during the long-haul flight and attacked a crew member. Other passengers witnessed the incident, and cabin crew restrained the man before the captain made the decision to divert.
Qantas confirmed the diversion but has not released detailed information about the incident. Local authorities in Tahiti met the aircraft upon landing, and the passenger was removed from the flight. The remaining passengers continued their journey after a delay.
Police in French Polynesia are investigating the incident alongside Australian authorities. The passenger may face criminal charges for assault and endangering flight safety. Qantas has a zero-tolerance policy for violence against crew members.