Former Canadian pilot charged in suspected plane hijacking motivated by climate concerns

​​​​​​​By Merve Aydogan

HAMILTON, Canada (AA) - A former Canadian pilot was charged with hijacking a small aircraft earlier this week in what authorities said was driven by ideological motives related to climate change, according to a report Thursday.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) confirmed that Shaheer Cassim, 39, seized control of a light aircraft at the Victoria International Airport on Tuesday after threatening a flight instructor, said a report by the Canadian Press.

The report noted that Cassim flew the Cessna to Vancouver, prompting a security scare and the deployment of US fighter jets before the plane landed safely.

Authorities said the incident is being investigated under anti-terrorism laws due to an "ideological motive."

Cassim posted online one day before the flight, calling himself a "messenger" sent to save humanity from climate disaster.

His social media included warnings about mass extinction, religious visions and urgent calls for climate action.

Cassim worked for a regional airline in British Columbia, and undertook a cross-country bike trip in 2012 to raise awareness about global warming.

The report stated that former employers described Cassim as intelligent and passionate, though surprised by the recent events.

The case remains under investigation, with details to be released.