A man who was about to board an international flight faces multiple charges after allegedly committing obscene exposure at Sydney Airport.

The 48-year old from New South Wales was arrested after airport staff called police.

He fled when approached by members of the public, and tried to leave the departure area.

He was stopped by ABF officers and arrested by the AFP.

They allegedly then found child abuse material on his mobile.

They’re also examining his two laptops and a hard drive.

He is expected to appear in Parramatta Local Court today charged with allegedly possessing child abuse material and committing obscene exposure in a public place.

He faces up to 15 years in prison.

AFP Detective Acting Inspector Trevor Robinson said passengers who break the law will be dealt with.

“Travellers have the right to feel safe within our airports and the AFP is here to protect the travelling public from criminal acts,” Robinson said.