Coastreporter Former Pilot Pleads Guilty to Hijacking Plane in Climate Protest Incident
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- •Shaheer Cassim hijacked a plane, leading to significant airport disruptions.
- •The incident prompted military responses, including the scrambling of fighter jets.
- •Cassim's actions were ideologically motivated, linked to climate change concerns.
Shaheer Cassim, a former commercial pilot, pleaded guilty to hijacking a small plane and interfering with operations at Vancouver International Airport on July 15, 2025. The incident began when Cassim stole a Cessna from the Victoria Flying Club, which led to a 39-minute ground stop for arrivals and the diversion of nine inbound flights. Military protocols were activated, with U.S. fighter jets scrambled and Canadian CF-18s on standby. Cassim claimed his actions were motivated by a desire to raise awareness about climate change, describing himself as a 'messenger of Allah' on social media prior to the hijacking. He faces charges that are classified as terrorism under Canadian law and is scheduled for a sentencing hearing later in May 2026. Cassim's defense attorney plans to seek a psychiatric assessment due to his history of mental health issues. He remains in custody following his guilty plea.
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