Legal Definitions - skyjack

Skyjack refers to the unlawful seizure and control of an aircraft, typically through force, threats, or intimidation, by an unauthorized individual or group. The intent is often to divert the aircraft from its planned route, hold its occupants hostage, or use the aircraft for other illicit purposes.

Here are some examples to illustrate this concept:

• Example 1: During a commercial flight from New York to London, an individual suddenly rose from their seat, displayed a weapon, and demanded that the pilots change course and fly to a different country. The flight crew, under duress, was forced to comply with the demands.

  Explanation: This scenario clearly illustrates skyjacking because an unauthorized person used force and threats to illegally take control of a commercial aircraft and dictate its destination, diverting it from its scheduled route.

• Example 2: A small group of activists managed to board a private corporate jet before takeoff. Once the aircraft was airborne, they overpowered the flight crew and used the plane to broadcast political messages over various cities before landing at an unscheduled airfield.

  Explanation: This demonstrates skyjacking as the group unlawfully seized control of the private aircraft through force, using it for their own agenda rather than its intended purpose or route, and against the will of its legitimate operators.

• Example 3: An agitated passenger on a domestic flight attempted to force their way into the cockpit, shouting threats and demanding that the pilot land immediately at an unscheduled airport to pick up a relative. Security personnel intervened before they could gain full control.

  Explanation: Even though the attempt was unsuccessful, this action constitutes an attempted skyjacking because the passenger used threats and attempted force to gain unauthorized control over the aircraft's operation and destination, intending to divert it from its planned course.