Passengers on a flight to Birmingham feared the plane was being hijacked by terrorists after a man on board shouted ‘Allahu Akbar’ and ‘Boom’.
Families and children were left distraught after Shehraz Sarwar’s outburst on the Emirates Boeing 777 plane.
The 38-year-old reportedly became aggressive following severe turbulence and started throwing food and towels while shouting inflammatory phrases.
He had earlier repeatedly refused to fasten his seat belt as the plane was taking off but then settled down and slept for hours on the Dubai to Birmingham flight.
But as the pilot lined the plane up to land he threw food and towels around the plane. He also shouted phrases related to terrorist attacks.
There was also severe turbulence on the plane when Sarwar became aggressive.
Prosecuting Sarwar in Birmingham Crown Court, Patrick Sullivan QC told the Birmingham Mail: ‘The behaviour before these words were obnoxious.
‘He fell asleep for about three-quarters of the flight and when he woke up he threw a towel back at a member of staff who had offered him one. He also threw a scone behind him although it did not land on anyone.
‘He was also hitting his head with his hand. People were distressed and upset by his behaviour.’
One passenger said they were happy to have survived the landing but thought Sarwar was going to set off a bomb aboard the flight.
Sarwar of Wright Road, Saltley, Birmingham, shouted ‘Allahu Akbar’ and ‘Boom’ whilst on the flight.
He pleaded guilty to using threatening words and behaviour.
Judge Simon Drew QC adjourned the case for sentencing on July 1. He warned all sentencing options would be considered.
Balbir Singh, defending, said Sarwar had been affected by the death of his grandmother and hadn’t taken his medication methadone.
The heavy turbulence also provoked him, his lawyer said.
Passengers fear terrorist attack as man shouts ‘Allahu Akbar’
