The government says the hijacking of the plane was not linked to a border threat.

BELMOPAN, Belize, CMC – The Belize government Friday described as “an extraordinary and rare circumstance” Thursday’s hijacking of a Cessna 208EX Grand Caravan carrying 15 passengers and one pilot and that it remains confident that the event was not linked to any border threat.

It also said that the Department of Civil Aviation is working closely with the United States Embassy and other relevant authorities to ensure “a comprehensive inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the incident.”

Police Thursday confirmed that three passengers were injured after an American citizen allegedly hijacked Tropic Air flight 9N711 at knifepoint. The police report that Akinyela Sawa Taylor was fatally shot in the chest by a passenger who had a licensed firearm.

According to reports, Taylor wanted to be taken out of the country and demanded more fuel for the plane.

US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said Washington is “grateful, like all of us are, that this did not turn into a mass casualty event with over a dozen people on the plane.

“It is terrifying. But thank God,” Bruce added.

In its statement, the government said that the aircraft remained airborne for approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes before safely landing at Philip Goldson International Airport.

“Belizean security forces responded swiftly and professionally. A formal investigation has been launched and is actively underway. The Department of Civil Aviation is working closely with the US Embassy and other relevant authorities to ensure a comprehensive inquiry into the incident’s circumstances.

“This is an extraordinary and rare circumstance. While our domestic airspace is typically very secure — with over 120,000 flights operated safely each year — we acknowledge the seriousness of this incident and the concerns it raises,” the government said.

It commended the pilot for his “exceptional professionalism and composure in the face of a highly stressful situation,” adding, “his actions undoubtedly safeguarded the lives of all on board. All passengers demonstrated remarkable bravery, and their efforts contributed to the positive outcome.”

The Department of Civil Aviation said it “has long maintained rigorous safety standards and risk management protocols.

“Although prior assessments indicated a low risk of unlawful interference within domestic operations, no system is infallible. It is important to note that discussions to enhance airport security at domestic terminals were already in progress before this incident, including negotiations with specialized security service providers.

“We understand the distress this incident may have caused and extend our heartfelt reassurance to the traveling public — Belizeans and our international visitors — that safety remains our highest priority. ”

The government said that while there is no indication that this event is linked to any broader threat, “we are taking decisive action.

“As a precaution and in the interest of public safety, enhanced security measures will be implemented across all domestic airports, effective immediately. These measures minimize disruption while strengthening protections for passengers, crew, and aircraft.

“The Government of Belize is fully committed to maintaining a secure aviation environment and will continue working closely with both national and international partners to align our practices with the highest global safety standards,” it said, adding, “We will continue to refine our security protocols by evolving international best practices.”