Small plane hijacked in Canada, suspect arrested on landing at Vancouver airport

Travel was briefly disrupted at Vancouver International Airport on Tuesday after a small plane, reported hijacked from Vancouver Island, entered controlled airspace and landed safely, prompting a rapid security response.

According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), they received a report at approximately 1:10 p.m. PT (2010 GMT) that a Cessna 172 had been unlawfully taken and was en route to Vancouver’s airspace.

Authorities confirmed that the aircraft was being flown by a lone individual, identified as the suspect.

The plane touched down without incident at 1:45 p.m. PT (2045 GMT), where the suspect was immediately taken into custody by RCMP. No injuries or damages were reported.

Images captured by CBC show the small white aircraft surrounded by emergency and law enforcement vehicles on the runway.

The plane is believed to be operated by a flying club based in Victoria, the capital of British Columbia.

In response to the incident, Vancouver International Airport temporarily suspended operations, leading to the diversion of nine incoming flights.

Normal airport activity resumed shortly after the aircraft landed.

RCMP have not released further details regarding the suspect's identity or motive.