Arrest at Vancouver airport after someone accessed plane ‘without authorization,’ RCMP say

A security breach triggered a significant police response on the tarmac, where a man was arrested after gaining access to a plane.

There was a heavy police presence at Vancouver International Airport early Monday morning after someone “accessed an aircraft without authorization,” according to the RCMP.

The Richmond RCMP detachment told CTV News officers responded to the incident around 4 a.m. and arrested a suspect.

“The situation was resolved,” Cpl. Frank Bryson said in an email. “Specialized police resources responded alongside our partners at the airport, and we thank them for their co-ordinated efforts.”

There was a heavy police presence visible on the tarmac as the incident unfolded, including several RCMP vehicles with emergency lights activated.

In a statement, the Vancouver Airport Authority confirmed the suspect gained access to a “secure apron area near the terminal” by going over a fence.

“This immediately initiated the established multi-layer response from YVR, partner agencies, and the RCMP,” a spokesperson said. “The situation was contained within minutes.”

YVR operations were not impacted by the breach, according to airport officials.

“While all protocols were followed during the incident, we are working with RCMP and partners to review measures, as we do following any response activation, to ensure continued safety and security,” the spokesperson added.

The suspect accessed the wheel well of a Porter Airlines plane.

The company said the aircraft will undergo a comprehensive inspection before returning to service.

Bryson told CTV News the RCMP’s investigation into the apparent security breach is ongoing, and that further information would not be released “at this time.”