The theft of a Cessna 172 aircraft was thwarted yesterday at Vancouver International Airport, leading to the arrest of the sole occupant on board and causing a temporary closure of the airspace overhead, resulting in a nearly 40-minute disruption of airport traffic.

The alert was triggered shortly after 1:00 PM (local time) on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, when the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in Richmond, British Columbia, received a report concerning a Cessna that was believed to have been stolen and was en route to Vancouver. Civil aviation sources confirmed that the pilot of the aircraft, the presumed thief, was the only individual on board.

The aircraft, identified as a Cessna 172S Skyhawk SP, registration C-GTLF, had departed from Victoria International Airport. Online flight tracking data show that the aircraft made several circuits in Vancouver’s airspace before landing at 1:43 PM. Tense moments ensued: controllers expressed significant concern due to the unexpected sighting of the aircraft flying without any filed flight plan. Unaware of the pilot’s intentions, incoming aircraft were alerted, and departures were halted.

As soon as the Cessna touched down, several RCMP units, accompanied by airport police vehicles, positioned themselves on the runway. Videos and images circulated on social media shortly after the incident show officers advancing resolutely toward the aircraft, firearms drawn, while the individual on board surrendered with raised hands. Police confirmed that the sole occupant was immediately taken into custody.

The airport later announced that the regrettable episode led to a suspension of arrivals for 39 minutes and the diversion of nine inbound aircraft to alternate airports. Despite the inconvenience, airport operations returned to normal in the afternoon.

The Victoria Flying Club, operator of the stolen aircraft, confirmed that everything was “resolved safely". Investigations are now underway to determine the motives and exact circumstances of the theft. Authorities praised the swift response and coordination among the various law enforcement units, which allowed the situation to be resolved without further incidents and ensured the safety of passengers and airport personnel.