Convention on Offences and Certain Other Acts Committed on Board Aircraft

General Information

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What is it about?

This instrument deals with both criminal offences and acts that affect in-flight safety of persons or property or jeopardize the discipline on board civilian aircraft registered in a State Party. It calls State Parties to punish hijackings by severe penalties, and either extradite or prosecute the offenders. It also authorizes pilots to take measures to protect aircraft and requires State Parties to take custody of offenders.

Why is it relevant?

It constitutes an effort of the international community towards the prevention against aircraft diversions. In this sense, it addresses specific security concerns, harmonizing essential issues relating to acts and offences committed on board an aircraft in international flight.

Additional Information

This Convention does not include guidelines for punishment, which are presented by the Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful seizure of Aircraft (The Hague, 16/12/1970). Moreover, 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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