Acts of unlawful interference – Canadian Flight Trainers

Acts of unlawful interference are acts or attempted acts such as to jeopardize the safety of civil aviation and air transport. They are defined under the Aeronautics Act and international conventions including the Tokyo, Hague, and Montreal Conventions.

Examples

Unlawful seizure of an aircraft in flight (hijacking)
Unlawful seizure of an aircraft on the ground
Hostage-taking on board aircraft or at aerodromes
Forcible intrusion on board an aircraft, at an airport, or on the premises of an aeronautical facility
Introduction of a weapon or hazardous device or material aboard an aircraft or at an airport
Use of an aircraft in operation for the purpose of causing death, serious bodily injury, or serious damage to property
Communication of false information that jeopardizes the safety of an aircraft in flight or persons at an airport

Regulatory Context

Transport Canada’s Aviation Security Regulations (CARs Part V, Subpart 3) establish requirements for aerodrome operators, air carriers, and ground handlers to prevent and respond to acts of unlawful interference. Crew members have specific duties under the Aeronautics Act to report security threats and comply with security directives.

On the TC Written Exam

This term appears in the air law section of the PPL and CPL written exams. Candidates should know the definition and examples, and be familiar with the reporting obligations of flight crew under Canadian aviation regulations.