A stolen Cessna 172 caused significant disruption at Vancouver International Airport on September 26, 2023, leading to a temporary shutdown of the airspace. The aircraft took off from Victoria International Airport, approximately 40 miles south of Vancouver, where it was typically used for flight training. As the plane circled the airport, air traffic controllers grounded incoming flights and diverted several others.
In a recording obtained from LiveATC.net, a tower controller informed pilots of the situation, stating, “We do have an aircraft that has been hijacked and is in the vicinity of the airport.” This alert prompted nearby aircraft, including a WestJet Airlines Boeing 737, to abort its landing due to the approaching Cessna, which was crossing about four miles in front of them.
Witnesses described the plane’s erratic movements as it dipped low and circled the airport. Paul Heeney, a bystander, shared his concern with CBC, saying, “He was doing quite a radical turn at low altitude. I went wow, I wonder if he is in trouble.”
The stolen Cessna eventually landed safely at Vancouver International Airport, where it was immediately surrounded by law enforcement. The suspect, who remains unidentified by authorities, was the only person on board and was taken into custody. In an official statement, the airport acknowledged that the security incident resulted in a temporary ground stop for arriving flights lasting approximately 39 minutes. During this period, nine planes were diverted to alternate airports.
Authorities have not disclosed any motives behind the theft of the aircraft. The incident underscores the potential risks posed by unauthorized flights, particularly in busy airspaces like that of Vancouver, one of Canada’s busiest airports.
As investigations continue, both the airport and police are expected to provide further updates on the situation.
