Federal police will increase airport patrols following a spate of unlawful behaviour from passengers in recent months. 

More than 330 people have been charged at airports in the past six months, with most of the 420 charges relating to offensive behaviour, public disturbances and carrying prohibited items.

AFP Assistant Commissioner Specialist Protective Command Scott Lee said he was concerned about the level of intoxication of some passengers who had been charged.

“Some behaviour on flights in recent months has been appalling and in some cases, dangerous,” he said.

Patrols will be ramped up ahead of the festive season as the AFP looks to take action against disruptive or unlawful behaviour.

It comes after a Jetstar flight from Melbourne to Brisbane was turned around, just 24 minutes after take-off because a brawl had erupted between two passengers.

But Ray Hadley said airlines need to bear more of the burden when it comes to rowdy and unsafe passengers.

“I think they have to have a responsibility,” he said. “And I don’t expect some 52-kilo flight attendant, or someone on the counter to be arguing with some hulking drunk but get the AFP there!

“If you suspect the person’s drunk, don’t let them on the flight.”

Press PLAY below to hear Ray Hadley’s comments in full 

Image: Brook Mitchell/Getty Images