skyjack

[ skahy-jak ]

verb (used with object)

1. to hijack (an airliner), especially in order to hold the passengers and plane for ransom or for political reasons.

skyjack

/ ˈskaɪˌdʒæk /

verb

1. tr to commandeer (an aircraft), usually at gunpoint during flight, forcing the pilot to fly somewhere other than to the scheduled destination

Derived Forms

• ˈskyˌjacker, noun

Other Words From

• skyjacker noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of skyjack¹

First recorded in 1965–70; sky + (hi)jack

Word History and Origins

Origin of skyjack¹

C20: from sky + hijack

Example Sentences

But why would anyone seeking to skyjack or otherwise get control of this flight go to the trouble of taking out the ACARS?

From The Daily Beast

Related Words

• capture
• hijack
• seize
• snatch
• steal