A Surrey man could face fines totalling 13,000 dollars, if convicted of forcing the diversion of a plane

A Surrey man could face fines totalling 13-thousand dollars if he's convicted of forcing the diversion of a plane flying from Vancouver to Toronto.

The 60 year old was arrested early Sunday when the plane diverted to Winnipeg after it's alleged he lit a cigarette, ignored the direction of crew and refused to wear a protective face mask when ordered.

Winnipeg RCMP say the man has now been charged with mischief over five-thousand dollars.

But he could face fines almost triple that amount if it's decided he failed to comply with aviation regulations such as the prohibition against smoking aboard an aircraft.