Canadian arrested after trying to open emergency exit during flight

SYDNEY, NSW, Australia - A Canadian man, 33, appeared in Downing Centre Local Court in Sydney on Monday for allegedly attempting to open an aircraft emergency exit door on an international flight.

The man was charged by the Australian Federal Police after arriving into Sydney Airport on a flight from Vancouver, Canada, last Sunday.

It is alleged another passenger noticed the man attempting to open the emergency exit door about two hours into the flight and pulled him away.

Airline staff moved the man to a seat at the rear of the aircraft and supervised him for the remainder of the flight.

It will be alleged the man was intoxicated at the time of the incident.

The AFP responded to a request to meet the flight at the arrivals gate at Sydney International Airport. Police arrested the man and charged him.

AFP Detective Inspector Dom Stephenson said the AFP was committed to supporting airport staff and ensuring all travellers experienced a safe journey from their departure through to their arrival at their destination.

"The AFP and our aviation partners have no tolerance for antisocial, violent or dangerous behaviour and we will take action," Detective Inspector Stephenson said Monday.

"Passengers expect to feel safe and should not have to witness or endure intoxication or reckless behaviour," he added.

(File photo).