BELMOPAN, Belize, CMC – The Belize authorities Friday described as “a rare and uncommon circumstance” Thursday’s hijacking of a Cessna 208EX Grand Caravan carrying 15 passengers and one pilot and that it stays assured that the occasion was not linked to any border risk.
It additionally stated that the Division of Civil Aviation is working carefully with the USA Embassy and different related authorities to make sure “a complete inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the incident.”
Police Thursday confirmed that three passengers had been injured after an American citizen allegedly hijacked Tropic Air flight 9N711 at knifepoint. The police report that Akinyela Sawa Taylor was fatally shot within the chest by a passenger who had a licensed firearm.
In accordance with experiences, Taylor wished to be taken overseas and demanded extra gas for the airplane.
US State Division spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated Washington is “grateful, like all of us are, that this didn’t flip right into a mass casualty occasion with over a dozen folks on the airplane.
“It’s terrifying. However thank God,” Bruce added.
In its assertion, the federal government stated that the plane remained airborne for roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes earlier than safely touchdown at Philip Goldson Worldwide Airport.
“Belizean safety forces responded swiftly and professionally. A proper investigation has been launched and is actively underway. The Division of Civil Aviation is working carefully with the US Embassy and different related authorities to make sure a complete inquiry into the incident’s circumstances.
“That is a rare and uncommon circumstance. Whereas our home airspace is usually very safe — with over 120,000 flights operated safely annually — we acknowledge the seriousness of this incident and the issues it raises,” the federal government stated.
It recommended the pilot for his “distinctive professionalism and composure within the face of a extremely aggravating state of affairs,” including, “his actions undoubtedly safeguarded the lives of all on board. All passengers demonstrated exceptional bravery, and their efforts contributed to the optimistic final result.”
The Division of Civil Aviation stated it “has lengthy maintained rigorous security requirements and threat administration protocols.
“Though prior assessments indicated a low threat of illegal interference inside home operations, no system is infallible. It is very important observe that discussions to reinforce airport safety at home terminals had been already in progress earlier than this incident, together with negotiations with specialised safety service suppliers.
“We perceive the misery this incident could have triggered and lengthen our heartfelt reassurance to the touring public — Belizeans and our worldwide guests — that security stays our highest precedence. ”
The federal government stated that whereas there is no such thing as a indication that this occasion is linked to any broader risk, “we’re taking decisive motion.
“As a precaution and within the curiosity of public security, enhanced safety measures will probably be applied throughout all home airports, efficient instantly. These measures decrease disruption whereas strengthening protections for passengers, crew, and plane.
“The Authorities of Belize is absolutely dedicated to sustaining a safe aviation setting and can proceed working carefully with each nationwide and worldwide companions to align our practices with the best world security requirements,” it stated, including, “We’ll proceed to refine our safety protocols by evolving worldwide greatest practices.”
