Stolen Cessna Causes Disruption at Vancouver Airport, Suspect Had No Pilot License

Vancouver, Canada: A stolen Cessna 172 aircraft caused a significant security incident and temporary flight disruptions at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) on Tuesday afternoon, prompting an emergency response by airport authorities and federal law enforcement agencies.

According to a statement issued by the Richmond Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the aircraft was reported stolen from the Victoria Flying Club, based at Victoria International Airport, shortly after 1:00 p.m. PDT. The plane was identified as having departed Victoria without authorization and subsequently entered Vancouver’s controlled airspace without prior clearance.

Airport officials and air traffic controllers monitored the aircraft as it approached and circled the airspace above Vancouver International Airport. Flight tracking data showed the Cessna maneuvering erratically at low altitude, raising immediate concerns among air traffic personnel. Out of precaution, the airport implemented a full ground stop on all inbound arrivals at approximately 1:15 p.m., halting flight operations while authorities coordinated a response.

At approximately 1:45 p.m., the aircraft made a safe landing at YVR. The RCMP, supported by YVR Security and RCMP Air Services, moved quickly to secure the aircraft and arrest the individual who was taken into custody without incident on the airfield. No injuries were reported during the event, and the aircraft sustained no apparent damage.

A total of nine inbound flights were diverted during the lockdown period, and dozens more were delayed. The temporary ground stop lasted for approximately 39 minutes, with normal flight operations resuming shortly after 2:00 p.m. The Vancouver Airport Authority later confirmed that while residual delays were expected, the airport had returned to regular operational status.

In an official update, Richmond RCMP stated that the individual taken into custody is believed to have acted alone. The identity of the suspect has not yet been disclosed, and no motive has been confirmed at this stage of the investigation. Authorities confirmed that the individual did not possess clearance to operate the aircraft and is not believed to be a licensed commercial pilot.

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) has been notified and is assessing whether a formal investigation will be opened. Meanwhile, the RCMP has launched a criminal investigation into the unauthorized use of the aircraft, including potential violations of the Canadian Aviation Regulations and other federal statutes.

The Victoria Flying Club, operator of the aircraft, issued a brief statement acknowledging the incident and confirmed it is fully cooperating with investigators.

Airport operations at YVR have since stabilized, and the airport authority has advised travelers to monitor airline communications for any residual delays or schedule adjustments. No further public safety threats are currently associated with the event, according to police.

Authorities are expected to release additional details as the investigation progresses.