A Hamilton man has been convicted for behaving disruptively on a flight from Fiji to Auckland.
Francis Douglas Eggleton repeatedly refused to fold away his tray table and swore at crew as the 737 aircraft was preparing to land at Auckland Airport on July 30 2010.
He had been drinking alcohol throughout the flight.
Mr Eggleton appeared in Manukau District Court today and was charged with disruptive conduct towards crew and non-compliance with commands given by pilot-in-command.
He was convicted of both charges, which each carry a potential fine of $5000. However, as Mr Eggleton was remorseful and had already spent a night in police custody, he was discharged without further penalty.
CAA investigating officer Corey Price says it is an international safety requirement for airline tray tables be stowed for takeoff and landing.
“It’s an important safety consideration, because passengers must be able to freely get out of their seats in case of emergency.”
3 News