A dramatic security incident unfolded in British Columbia on Tuesday. A small Cessna 172 was taken without authorization from Victoria International Airport. It was flown into restricted airspace near Vancouver International Airport (YVR). The hijack led to flight delays, emergency runway activity, and the quick arrest of the lone passenger—all with no injuries reported.
At about 1:10 p.m. local time, police received word of a stolen Cessna 172 near YVR. The RCMP confirmed the aircraft entered restricted airspace. They immediately scrambled multiple response units. This included teams from Richmond, the Lower Mainland Emergency Response Team, and air support. NORAD also put fighter jets on alert, though none reached the plane before it landed.
The aircraft safely touched down on YVR’s north runway around 1:45 p.m. Reports say the pilot circled overhead for roughly 30 minutes before landing. Once on the ground, the suspect was arrested without incident. No injuries or damage were reported.
Police later identified the pilot as 39-year-old Shaheer Cassim. He has been charged with hijacking, which may carry terrorism-related implications in Canada. Cassim reportedly told investigators he threatened a flight instructor in Victoria before seizing the plane. Investigation is ongoing into his motives. Early signs suggest ideological motives may be involved.
Cassim is not a current member of the Victoria Flying Club. The club’s president confirmed procedures are under review. Staff have been offered support and possible counseling.
When the hijack was confirmed, YVR placed a ground stop on all inbound flights. For about 39 minutes, many incoming aircraft were forced to divert. At least nine flights were rerouted to hubs like Seattle, Comox, Abbotsford, and Calgary.
Service resumed late afternoon. Still, flight schedules remained disrupted. Travelers were urged to check for updates. Some flights experienced knock-on delays or cancellations. YVR staff and airlines worked hard to assist stranded passengers.
The RCMP responded promptly. Ground teams, canine units, air services, and emergency responders secured the landing area. NORAD stood ready with F‑15 fighters, but they were stood down once the plane touched down.
Staff at Victoria Flying Club said this was a “one‑in‑a‑million” event. The runway is closely monitored, but such an incident had not occurred before. Officials stress that this case will be studied carefully. Training and access rules may be updated to prevent future incidents.This incident is rare. But it shows how even small aircraft can create major disruption.
For ongoing coverage and clear, local updates, stay tuned to British Columbia Today.
