Flight diverted as passenger arrested after crew member allegedly assaulted

The man was allegedly intoxicated and disruptive when he allegedly assaulted a crew member during the international flight.

A man has been removed from an international flight after allegedly assaulting a crew member.

The Australian Federal Police were alerted to a passenger who was allegedly intoxicated and disruptive on a flight from Perth to Auckland early Wednesday morning.

The man was allegedly intoxicated and disruptive during the international flight. Picture: Australian Federal Police.

The New Zealand man, 23, allegedly assaulted a crew member, who suffered a slight injury as a result.

Staff also alleged the man refused to comply with crew member requests during the flight.

The flight was diverted to Melbourne Airport, with AFP officers boarding the plane to remove the man.

The 23-year-old was removed from the flight by the Australian Federal Police. Picture: Australian Federal Police.

He was restrained at the back of the plane, with AFP Superintendent Stephen Cook confirming the flight was delayed as a result of the incident.

“Any violence or anti-social behaviour in a confined space in the air would be distressing for other passengers and crew,” Superintendent Cook said.

“At the very least, in this alleged incident it disrupted everyone’s travel plans.

“Anti-social behaviour during a flight can pose a direct threat to the safety of the aircraft that is taken seriously by airlines and the AFP.”

The 23-year-old has been charged with one count of assaulting crew affecting the performance of their duty.

The maximum penalty for the offence is 20 years imprisonment.

The AFP have urged anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour at Australian airports to call Airport Watch on 131 237.