A student at Sydney University has received a fine of $ 10,000 after he threatened to blow up a plane due to a three -hour delay.
Andre La Guardia, 22, was waiting for Sydney International Airport on December 19 to take a flight with his family to the Philippines when he placed on Instagram: “Imma Bout to blow this”.
The Instagram post showed the interior of an airplane with passengers.
Instagram removed the post before violating community standards and warned the Australian Federal Police (AFP).
The flight left with La Guardia without incidents, the Philippines allowed after a conversation with the police on arrival.
But on his return to Sydney on January 17, he was interviewed by the police and accused of threatening aviation protection.
He faced Downing Center Local Court on Wednesday and argued guilty.
His lawyer Paul Meehan claimed that his client would not continue the threat.
Andre La Guardia was fined $ 10,000 after he threatened to blow up a plane due to a delay
“It was an expression of frustration by a naive young man who has certainly learned his lesson,” De Heer Meehan told the court.
Magistraat Greg Grogin said he would have imprisoned La Guardia, but the law only considered the violation that was worth a fine.
“To suggest that something will be blown up, especially an airplane, is an absolutely incredibly stupid and unacceptable thing to do,” he said.
“If there was a prison sentence, Mr. La Guardia, you would receive a prison sentence from me.”
Magistraat Grogin acknowledged that La Guardia accepted responsibility through his cooperation with the police, his early culprit and a letter of apologetic to the court.
Outside the court, La Guardia apologized to those on the plane and said he was sorry about his actions.
The maximum fine for threatening aviation safety is a fine of $ 16,500.
AFP Sydney Airport Police Commander Davina Copelin said that anyone who threatened the safety of travelers would be kept to account.
Andre La Guardia was at Sydney International Airport when he placed the bomb threat online
“This incident should serve as a warning that threatening aircraft or airports can cause heavy costs,” said Detective Acting Superintendent Copelin.
'Threats can cause a considerable loss of resources and time for airlines and over the airport area. They also bring the safety of members of the public, airport employees and the authorities who must thoroughly investigate the incident. '
