The United Airlines plane was en route from Rome to Chicago on Saturday when the captain made the decision to change route.

The man, dual US-Italian nationality, is also charged by our Airport Constabulary with disruptive behaviour on an aircraft &common assault

— Belfast Airport (@BelfastAirport) June 21, 2015

It's understood the aircraft was over north-west Scotland when the call was made.

The man is currently being held at Antrim police station. He is due to appear in court on Monday

The man, dual US-Italian nationality, is also charged by our Airport Constabulary with disruptive behaviour on an aircraft &common assault

— Belfast Airport (@BelfastAirport) June 21, 2015