MEDIA STATEMENT:
19 SEPTEMBER 2011:

Fake Pilot Incident – Three Men Charged:

Counties Manukau Police have arrested and charged three men for their respective roles in breaching Section 56A of the Civil Aviation Act 1990.

The charges relate to providing false information to ground staff at Auckland International Airport’s Domestic Terminal at the weekend.

The penalty for this offence is 12 months imprisonment or a fine not exceeding $10,000.

Detective Superintendent Andy Lovelock says an investigation began soon after a man masquerading as a pilot attempted to gain access to the restricted airside area at the Domestic Terminal at 2.30pm on Saturday 17 September 2011.

“As a result of the investigations carried out the three men will appear in the Counties Manukau District Court this afternoon. Further enquiries will continue,” he said.

The three men include a 33 year old Company Director; a Film Producer aged 26 years, and a 32 year old broadcaster. All three are from Auckland.

“I wish to acknowledge my team of investigators who have worked tirelessly to bring about a result in this enquiry. I acknowledge Civil Aviation, Aviation Security, the media and the public too for their consequential support to Police. There has been magnificent cooperation from all concerned.”

“Police will make no further comment at this time as the matter is now before the Court,” Detective Superintendent Lovelock said.

ENDS

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