Australian Federal Police were called to Sydney Airport yesterday evening to meet an Air Asia flight arriving from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
It will be alleged a 46-year-old Jordanian national attempted to open the rear emergency exit door mid-flight on flight D7220.
Airline staff escorted him to a seat located in the middle of the aircraft, however he then allegedly attempted to open the middle emergency exit door.
The man was then restrained by crew and passengers, during which he allegedly assaulted a staff member.
Police have since charged him with endangering the safety of a an aircraft and assaulting a member of the cabin crew.
He is due to face Parramatta Local Court today.
The offences each carry a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment.
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AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Davina Copelin said dangerous behaviour on flights will not be tolerated.
“The actions of this man could have had tragic consequences, and passengers and airplane staff shouldn’t have to put up with unruly, violent, or dangerous behaviour on flights,” Copelin said.
“The AFP will not hesitate to take action against people who engage in criminal behaviour on airplanes, especially where this behaviour has the potential to endanger the safety of passengers, crew or the flight itself.”
AirAsia confirmed the incident.
