Airplane Hijacking

Statutory Citations:
Federal: 49 U.S.C. § 46502
(No Michigan equivalent; airplane hijacking is exclusively a federal offense.)

Airplane hijacking involves allegations of seizing, attempting to seize, or exercising control over an aircraft through force, violence, intimidation, or threats. Because aircraft safety falls under federal jurisdiction, these cases are exclusively prosecuted by the U.S. Department of Justice and investigated by agencies such as the FBI, TSA, and Homeland Security.

To prove hijacking, federal prosecutors must establish that the defendant used or attempted to use force, threats, or intimidation to unlawfully take control of an aircraft “in flight.” Evidence may include flight recordings, surveillance, passenger and crew statements, digital communications, forensic analysis, and expert testimony regarding aircraft protocols. These sources can be inconsistent, influenced by fear, or based on incomplete observations during chaotic situations.

Zupac Law examines each element of the government's case, including the alleged intent, actions aboard the aircraft, witness reliability, mental state, and whether conduct was misinterpreted due to panic or confusion. We scrutinize interviews, security footage, device extractions, and federal investigative procedures for errors or overreach.

Airplane hijacking carries among the most severe federal penalties, including lengthy imprisonment, terrorism-related sentencing enhancements, substantial fines, and lifelong supervision. Immediate legal representation is critical to manage federal communications, prevent self-incrimination, and preserve critical evidence.