Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Seizure of Aircraft

General Information

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What is it about?

This Convention comes to address the issue of punishment of offenders on board aircraft. It defines the term ‘offenders’, in which accomplices are also included. It also states in which cases the State Parties may establish criminal jurisdiction and, in the case of joint air transport operating agencies or international operating agencies, which shall exercise jurisdiction for each aircraft. Moreover, it deals with the compliance and enforcement issues, stating that the State Parties are required to either extradite the offender or submit the case for prosecution. It also requires mutual assistance amongst the State Parties on criminal proceedings in order to make the offence punishable by severe penalties.

Why is it relevant?

This Instrument represents the effort of the international community to deter unlawful acts of seizure or exercise of control of aircraft in flight, ensuring the prosecution and punishment of offenders. Consequently, it corroborates to the security of international air flights.

Additional Information

The exercise of national law, mainly regarding criminal jurisdiction, is not excluded by this Convention. In addition, it does not apply to domestic cases, excluding acts and offences committed in the airspace of the State where the aircraft is registered, unless the point of take-off or landing, actual or intended, is outside the territory of the State.

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