Stolen Cessna 172 flown to Vancouver airport, suspect arrested on runway

A suspect has been arrested after allegedly stealing a small passenger aircraft and approaching the airspace of Vancouver International Airport (YVR), one of the busiest airports in Canada. 

On July 15, 2025, around 13:10 local time, the Richmond Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) received a report indicating that a Cessna 172, operated by the Victoria Flying Club, had been stolen from the Vancouver Island region and was entering the airspace near Vancouver International Airport (YVR). 

The police confirmed that the suspect was the only person on board the aircraft. At 13:45 local time, the aircraft safely landed at the airport, and Richmond RCMP officers arrested the suspect without incident. 

Richmond RCMP, along with the Lower Mainland Integrated Police Dog Service, the Lower Mainland Integrated Emergency Response Team, and RCMP Air Services were immediately sent to the crime scene. 

“Communication was established with YVR Emergency Operation Center to ensure a coordinated response focused on the safety and security of all involved,” the police statement read. 

Witnesses at the airport shared photos of the incident on X showing police cars and officers arresting a man near the aircraft on one of the runways. 

#REPORT: A man has been arrested after hijacking a small passenger aircraft on Vancouver Island. pic.twitter.com/DUdTA9APv6— 6ixDripTV (@6ixdrip) July 16, 2025

On July 15, 2025, Vancouver airport officials released a statement calling it a “security incident” and said it had prompted a temporary ground stop for arriving aircraft. During the 39-minute halt on all arrivals, nine inbound aircraft were diverted to alternate airports.  

“Airlines, YVR, and our partners are working to support getting those passengers to their destinations,” the statement from Vancouver airport read. 

In an update, Vancouver airport stated that flights are now operating normally in and out of the airport. However, some flight delays are still possible. Passengers are advised to check with their airline before heading to the airport. 

“This is an active and ongoing investigation with numerous factors still being assessed as such, no further details can be shared at this time,” the police statement concluded. The post Stolen Cessna 172 flown to Vancouver airport, suspect arrested on runway appeared first on AeroTime.

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