Man Steals Small Plane, Forces Airspace Shutdown Over Vancouver Airport

A stolen Cessna 172 aircraft forced a temporary closure of the airspace over Vancouver International Airport on Tuesday, causing concern at one of Canada’s busiest travel hubs.

The aircraft was taken from Victoria International Airport, where it is typically used for flight training. After takeoff, the small plane flew approximately 40 miles north toward Vancouver, entering the airport’s controlled airspace and circling in the area.

Radio recordings captured the tense moment air traffic controllers alerted other pilots:

“We do have an aircraft that has been hijacked and is in the vicinity of the airport,” a tower controller announced. “Just in case anything starts heading toward you, you have the ability to move at your discretion.”

The situation prompted authorities to shut down air traffic temporarily as a precaution.

The Cessna 172 eventually landed safely at Vancouver International Airport, where it was immediately surrounded by law enforcement. The sole occupant, identified only as the suspect, was taken into custody without incident.

Authorities have not yet released details about the suspect’s identity or motive. The incident is under investigation by local police and aviation authorities.