Virgin Blue flight 449 returned to Brisbane Airport on Thursday night after a 54-year-old man made the threats, which were believed to include the claim that he would harm those on board.
As soon as the plane touched down, the man was arrested by Federal Police officers who were waiting at the airport. He was taken to the Brisbane Watchhouse.
The man was charged with making threats to aviation security and offensive and disorderly behaviour in an aircraft.
The second charge is believed to be the result of a drunken argument with another passenger that might have become violent.
A Virgin Blue spokeswoman said there were 138 passengers on board.
She said the man appeared to have been drinking heavily and became aggressive and that safety was the airline's first priority.
The man appeared in a Brisbane Magistrates Court on Friday. He was bailed to reappear on November 21.
by Paul Bibby
SOURCE | Sydney Morning Herald
