Flight turned back due to threat: report

A Tigerair flight from Sydney to Melbourne has reportedly turned back mid-flight due to a possible safety threat on board.

Tigerair's flight TT271 to Melbourne was forced to return to Sydney Airport, News Corp Australia reported.

The flight left at 7.05pm and returned to Sydney at 8.35pm.

Police surrounded the plane and passengers were told to stay seated and switch off their phones, News Corp reported.

A Tigerair spokesman said in a statement: "The captain made the decision to return to Sydney following an incident on-board. In line with standard procedures, the Australian Federal Police met the aircraft on arrival."