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Cockpit Security: Why Hijackings Are So Rare

2 min read

The short answer

Hijackings are extremely rare today. Every large airliner has a strong cockpit door that stays locked throughout the flight, and every passenger and bag is screened before boarding. Crews are trained in security, and many more layers of protection work quietly in the background.

Extremely Rare Today

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, hijackings happened around 60 times a year worldwide. Since the early 2000s, they have become extremely rare. That's thanks to layers of security that work together.

Today, around 38 million flights take off every year. A hijacking is now so unusual that a single case makes headlines around the world.

A Door Built Like a Vault

Since 2003, international rules have required a reinforced cockpit door on every large passenger plane. It's built to resist forced entry — even bullets and blasts. It stays locked throughout the flight, and the pilots control who comes in.

When a crew member needs to enter, for example to bring a meal, strict procedures are followed. The pilots check who it is first, often on a camera. In the US, new airliners also have a second barrier that protects the cockpit whenever the door is briefly opened.

Security Before You Board

  • Every passenger and every cabin bag is screened with scanners and X-ray machines.
  • Suitcases in the hold are screened too.
  • Airport and airline staff who work near planes pass background checks.

Most of these layers are invisible to passengers. Each one works on its own. Together, they make a hijacking extraordinarily difficult.

Trained Crews

Pilots and cabin crew are trained in security procedures, including how to handle a disruptive passenger. They refresh this training regularly, just like their other safety skills.

What About Someone on the Crew?

Pilots are carefully selected, checked regularly and supported to stay well. Read how pilots' health is checked. Cases of a crew member deliberately causing harm are among the very rarest events in all of flying.

If You've Seen the Recent News

When an event like this happens, it's reported everywhere — precisely because it's so rare. Read why headlines make rare events feel common.

In the case in the news in autumn 2026, people on board acted quickly. The plane landed safely, and the airline confirmed that all passengers were safe.

After any serious event, investigators study exactly what happened. Rules and checks are then strengthened where needed. This is how flying has become one of the safest ways to travel.

The Bottom Line

A locked, reinforced door, screening of every passenger and bag, background checks and trained crews all stand between you and this extremely rare event. You can settle into your seat knowing that many people are quietly working to keep every flight secure.

Sources

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