The Australian Federal Police were summoned to Sydney Airport yesterday evening to intercept an Air Asia flight 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 personnel moved him to a center seat on the aircraft, but he allegedly tried to open the emergency exit door located in the middle section.

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.

AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Davina Copelin said dangerous behaviour on flights will not be tolerated.

“This man’s actions could have led to catastrophic results, and neither passengers nor airline staff should endure unruly, violent, or hazardous behavior during flights,” Copelin stated.

“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.