Unauthorized Cessna Flight Triggers Security Alert at Vancouver Airport
A security alert occurred at Vancouver International Airport, one of Canada’s busiest airports. A Cessna 172 that took off without authorization from Vancouver Island created a perceived threat in the airspace, leading to a temporary suspension of air traffic.
The unauthorized aircraft was identified as a Cessna 172S Skyhawk SP registered as C-GTLF, typically used for training at Victoria International Airport. After flying approximately 40 miles to Vancouver, the aircraft began circling at low altitude around the airport. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, air traffic control warned other pilots to “be prepared for evasive maneuvers in response to a possible threat.”
The plane was eventually landed without incident. Police surrounded the aircraft immediately after landing. The sole occupant of the plane was taken into custody at the scene.
Richmond RCMP Federal Police stated that the incident is being treated as a hijacking, though the suspect’s identity has not yet been released. An investigation has been launched to determine how the aircraft was taken and the background of the incident.
Operations at the airport, which had briefly paused, returned to normal following the event.
