U.S. man hijacks flight in Belize, stabs 3, is shot dead
NBC1 day
Hijacking Attempt by U.S. Citizen Foiled Aboard Belize Flight
Above: Tourists board a Tropic Air plane at the Sir Barry Bowen Municipal Airport in Belize City on April 17, 2025. Image copyright: JOSE A. SANCHEZ/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The hijacking at Corozal Airstrip has exposed a long-standing and serious vulnerability in Belize’s aviation system — the lack of robust security at smaller municipal airstrips. While the Belize Airports Authority says improved protocols were already in development, the incident highlights the urgent need for enhanced screening procedures and security measures to prevent future incidents.
Narrative B
The hijacking of a Tropic Air flight in Belize could have ended in tragedy, but the quick, decisive actions of the pilot and an armed passenger helped to avert a mass casualty event. Their response underscores the importance of preparedness and raises questions about the potential role of licensed firearms in crisis situations.