Other types of aviation crimes under federal law include: Interference with crew members or attendants through assault or intimidation (including attempt or conspiracy) Interference with airport security screeners through assault. Possessing or placing a weapon or explosive on a plane (including attempt or conspiracy)

Aviation crime refers to a broad spectrum of illegal acts that compromise the safety, security, or integrity of civil aviation. In 2026, this includes traditional offenses like hijacking, sabotage, and air piracy, but has expanded to include "modern" crimes such as cyber-attacks on air traffic control systems and the unauthorized use of drones near airports. It also encompasses "unruly passenger" behavior—such as physical assault of crew members or interfering with flight equipment—which carries heavy federal penalties. Legal frameworks like the Montreal Convention and various national "Aviation Acts" define these crimes. Beyond safety, aviation crime also includes the use of aircraft for smuggling (drugs, humans, or wildlife) and "regulatory crimes," such as pilots operating without a valid license or a company falsifying maintenance records. These crimes are unique because they often fall under international jurisdiction, meaning a crime committed in the air over one country can be prosecuted in another.