In a shocking incident on Thursday, April 17, 2025, a U.S. citizen hijacked a small passenger plane in Belize, resulting in injuries to multiple passengers and the eventual death of the hijacker. The suspect, identified as 49-year-old Akinyela Sawa Taylor, allegedly took control of the plane at knifepoint shortly after it departed from Corozal, demanding to be flown out of the country and requesting additional fuel for the aircraft.
The flight, operated by Tropic Air aboard a Cessna Grand Caravan EX, had 14 passengers on board, including Taylor and another American. The plane took off at 8:17 AM local time and quickly signaled an emergency to air traffic control shortly after departure. The aircraft began circling in Belizean airspace, running low on fuel before it was able to land safely at Philip Goldson International Airport in Belize City.
According to police reports, Taylor was armed with a knife and injured three passengers during the hijacking, including airline employee Jair Catañeda and pilot Howell Grange. The injuries sustained by these individuals were described as critical, raising concerns about their health following the attack.
As the situation unfolded, police were in contact with a passenger on the plane who was providing updates via text message. The hijacking was a tense ordeal for all involved, as the plane circled over the coastline with dwindling fuel reserves. Fortunately, the situation was resolved when another passenger with a licensed firearm shot Taylor in the chest after the plane landed.
State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce commented on the incident during a press briefing, expressing gratitude that the situation did not escalate into a mass casualty event. "We are grateful — I think all of us are — that that did not turn into a mass casualty event with, I believe, over a dozen people on the plane," Bruce stated.
Investigations are ongoing to determine how Taylor, who had previously been denied entry into Belize, was able to board the aircraft with a knife. Authorities are also reviewing security procedures for domestic flights in light of the incident. Belize's Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, indicated that there would be a thorough examination of the security protocols in place, stating, "We share that commitment with them to make sure that Belize is safe, the airlines are safe, the tourists coming here are safe, borders are safe and secure."
Eyewitness accounts revealed the chaos that ensued during the hijacking. Passengers reported feeling a mix of fear and confusion as Taylor made his demands known. The plane's crew acted quickly to alert authorities, which likely prevented a more disastrous outcome.
In the wake of the hijacking, the U.S. Embassy in Belize has been contacted and is cooperating with local authorities to investigate the incident and ensure the safety of all passengers. The embassy's involvement underscores the seriousness with which both U.S. and Belizean officials are treating the matter.
As the investigation continues, many are left wondering how such a violent act could occur in a country known for its tourism and hospitality. The incident has raised significant concerns about airport security and the safety of passengers traveling within Belize and beyond.
In a statement released by the Belize Airport Authority, officials expressed their commitment to maintaining high standards of security and safety for travelers. They noted, "We continue to be committed to improving the passenger experience while upholding the highest standards of protection and security."
As the investigation unfolds, more details are expected to emerge regarding Taylor's motives and how he was able to circumvent security measures. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel and the importance of robust security protocols.
For now, the focus remains on the victims and their recovery, as well as the broader implications for air travel safety in Belize. The community is rallying around those affected, hoping for a swift recovery for the injured and a resolution to the questions surrounding this harrowing event.
