Government Issues Statement After Hijacking on Tropic Air Flight

On Thursday evening, the Government of Belize issued an official statement following the hijacking of a domestic Tropic Air flight by Akinyela Sawa Taylor, a U.S. citizen.

Flight 9N711, en route from Corozal to San Pedro, was mid-flight when Taylor assaulted the pilot and attempted to take control of the aircraft. The plane circled over Belize City for nearly two hours before safely landing at Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport.

Passengers helped subdue the attacker, and Taylor was fatally shot by another passenger. The pilot and two others were injured but are expected to recover. Emergency responders were on standby as the plane landed, and international flights at PGIA remain unaffected.

The Government of Belize described the event as “extraordinary and rare.”

With more than 120,000 domestic flights operating safely each year, the government acknowledged the seriousness of the breach and committed to reviewing and strengthening airport security.

“We commend the pilot for his exceptional professionalism and composure in the face of a highly stressful situation,” the statement read. “His actions undoubtedly safeguarded the lives of all on board.”

The Department of Civil Aviation is working closely with Belizean authorities, the U.S. Embassy, and other relevant partners to conduct a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the hijacking.

While there is no current indication of a broader threat, officials have confirmed that enhanced security measures will be rolled out immediately at all domestic terminals. These measures are intended to reinforce passenger safety while minimizing disruption to travel.