Entire flight crew suspended after shock find from passenger

An entire flight crew has been suspended following the investigation into a passenger’s stolen phone on Garuda Indonesia flight GA716 from Jakarta to Melbourne on June 6, 2025.

Passenger Michael Tjendara reported that he placed his iPhone in the seat pocket before changing seats after takeoff. 

Upon returning to his original seat, he discovered the phone was missing.

Authorities, including the Indonesian National Police and Australian officials, are now involved in the investigation, local media reported.

Screenshots shared by Tjendara showed the phone’s location “moving” from the hotel near Southbank Promenade to the Evan Walker Bridge and finally near the Yarra River. 

The last signal indicated the phone was likely discarded into the river, as the signal disappeared shortly after.

Following the discovery, Garuda Indonesia’s station manager arrived at the hotel to conduct a search of some crew rooms, though not all rooms were inspected. 

The phone remained detected inside the hotel until the crew left around 4 PM. 

About 40 minutes later, the phone’s location shifted to the riverbank and then into the Yarra River.

In response, Garuda Indonesia suspended the entire cabin crew from flight duties pending a full investigation. 

The airline stated it is cooperating with the passenger and authorities to resolve the matter, emphasising its commitment to passenger safety and comfort.

Michael Tjendara expressed his frustration on social media, highlighting that the incident was not merely about a stolen phone but a breach of trust and passenger security.

He was travelling with his wife and two children when the phone went missing.

The incident has sparked widespread attention on social media, with many sympathising with the passenger and praising the airline’s swift action. 

Others have criticised the suspension of the entire crew without conclusive evidence.

The case raises concerns about onboard security and trust between passengers and airline staff, prompting calls for stricter measures to prevent theft during flights.