What does skyjacking mean?
Skyjacking is the unlawful seizure of an aircraft while it is in flight, usually by threatening or coercing the crew and passengers or by otherwise overpowering those in control. The term can refer both to the completed act and to an attempted takeover. It became especially prominent as an international security issue during the Cold War, when hijackings were used to force governments to respond to demands or secure the release of prisoners. Although the word sounds informal because of its playful internal rhyme, it normally describes a serious crime or attempted crime. Its related forms include the verb “to skyjack,” the agent noun “skyjacker,” and the less common attributive form “skyjacking.” In general writing, “aircraft hijacking” may sound more formal or legal, while “skyjacking” is concise and vivid.
nounThe act of illegally taking control of an aircraft while it is in flight. The person or group responsible is a skyjacker.
- The unlawful seizure or attempted seizure of an aircraft in flight.
"The flight was diverted after an attempted skyjacking."
"Security officials thwarted a skyjacking attempt at the airport."
"The skyjacking ended with the aircraft safely landing and the suspects in custody."
Skyjacking turns the sky, normally a symbol of freedom and distance, into a confined space under illegal control.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does skyjacking come from?
Skyjacking is an English compound formed from “sky” and “hijacking,” with “hijack” supplying the sense of forcibly taking possession or control. The compound became established in the early 20th century as aviation made long-distance flight increasingly common. The precise origin of “hijack” is disputed, although its development as a verb meaning to seize or commandeer is well documented.
Related word forms
How skyjacking is actually used
The term is formal and strongly associated with criminal or terrorist acts. In legal contexts, aircraft hijacking may be used more broadly.
Easily confused with skyjacking
Skyjacking specifically refers to illegally taking control of an aircraft, whereas piracy more broadly refers to robbery or violence at sea or in the air.