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Former commercial pilot charged with hijacking and terrorism over Vancouver flight

by David Harrison – Chief Editor
written by David Harrison – Chief Editor

Man Hijacks Plane, Cites Ideological Motive

Light Aircraft Diversion Halts Vancouver Airport Arrivals

A former pilot accused of hijacking a small aircraft and flying it to Vancouver International Airport did so with an “ideological motive to disrupt airspace,” authorities revealed Wednesday. The incident prompted a temporary closure of the airport’s arrival gates.

Terrorist Offence Charge Filed

Shaheer Cassim, 39, faces a charge of hijacking, which the Public Prosecution Service of Canada has classified as a “terrorist activity” and a “terrorist offence.” He is slated to appear in court next Tuesday in Richmond, B.C.

Landings at Vancouver International Airport were suspended for over thirty minutes on Tuesday afternoon due to the security incident.

Cassim, identified as a former commercial pilot with ties to Victoria, has a history of climate activism. Social media images suggest a resemblance to the man apprehended at Vancouver’s airport.

Climate Activism Past

In 2012, Cassim publicly advocated for climate action, organizing a cross-country bicycle journey. He previously worked for KD Air, a now-defunct regional airline. Former owners Lars and Diana Banke described him as an exceptionally intelligent pilot who held apocalyptic views on the environment.

“He was really, really, smart,” Lars Banke stated. “His intelligence was a problem.”

—Lars Banke, Former Owner, KD Air

Cassim reportedly left his pilot career to pursue medical studies. The Bankes last heard from him approximately two years ago.

NORAD Scrambles Jets

The Cessna 172, operated by the Victoria Flying Club, departed Victoria Airport shortly before 1 p.m. Tuesday. It circled Vancouver airspace for about 25 minutes before landing. NORAD confirmed that F-15 fighter jets were deployed as a precautionary measure. However, the intercepted aircraft landed before any aerial engagement occurred.

An air traffic control recording suggests the flight was intended as a protest, with one controller noting the suspect “expected to be arrested.” The incident caused a 39-minute “ground stop” for arrivals at YVR.

Air traffic control initially identified the aircraft as a “rogue aircraft” shortly after 1 p.m. Tuesday, instructing nearby planes to monitor its movements. The Victoria Flying Club has declined to provide further details due to the ongoing investigation.

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Technology

Largest piece of Mars on Earth fetches US$5.3-million at auction, but young dinosaur steals the show

by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor
written by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor

Mars Rock Fetches Millions, Dino Skeleton Dominates Auction

Spectacular specimens spark bidding wars in New York

The largest known piece of Mars ever recovered on Earth sold for over $5 million at auction, but it was a rare juvenile dinosaur skeleton that truly electrified the room, commanding a staggering $30.5 million.

Martian Specimen’s Stellar Sale

The 25-kilogram Martian meteorite, designated NWA 16788, found its way to a new owner for $5.3 million inclusive of fees. Discovered in Niger’s Sahara Desert in November 2023, the rock’s journey began with a massive asteroid impact on Mars, propelling it across 225 million kilometers to our planet.

A 24.67 kg Martian meteorite displayed at Sotheby’s, New York.

Sotheby’s reported the meteorite, approximately 70% larger than the next biggest Martian find, represents nearly 7% of all Martian material on Earth. Its dimensions are roughly 375mm by 279mm by 152mm.

Dinosaur Skeleton Steals the Spotlight

The auction’s true showstopper was a juvenile Ceratosaurus nasicornis skeleton. This specimen, one of only four known complete skeletons of the species and the sole juvenile example, ignited a fierce bidding war among six collectors.

Bidding for the dinosaur surged past its $4 million to $6 million pre-auction estimate. Starting with a $6 million advance offer, the competition escalated rapidly, with increments jumping from $500,000 to $1 million before closing at an astonishing $26 million.

The final sale price, including all fees, reached $30.5 million, making it the third-highest price ever paid for a dinosaur at auction. A Stegosaurus, dubbed “Apex,” currently holds the record, having sold for $44.6 million last year.

A Glimpse into Prehistory

The nearly complete dinosaur skeleton, standing over 2 meters tall and stretching nearly 3 meters long, is believed to be from the late Jurassic period, approximately 150 million years ago. Discovered in Wyoming’s Bone Cabin Quarry, known for its rich fossil deposits, the skeleton was meticulously assembled by specialists, with some sculpted materials used to complete the near 140 fossil bones.

The buyer of the dinosaur intends to loan the specimen to an institution for public display. In comparison, an average Tyrannosaurus rex could reach up to 12 meters in length, significantly larger than the Ceratosaurus, which grew to about 7.6 meters.

Rare Celestial Finds

The Martian meteorite sale, while substantial, saw a more reserved bidding process compared to the dinosaur. The final bid of $4.3 million, culminating in a $5.3 million total, was a record for a meteorite at auction.

Martian meteorites are exceedingly rare, with only 400 known out of over 77,000 officially recognized meteorites found on Earth. This latest acquisition is particularly significant.

“This Martian meteorite is the largest piece of Mars we have ever found by a long shot. So it’s more than double the size of what we previously thought was the largest piece of Mars.”

—Cassandra Hatton, Vice Chairman for Science and Natural History at Sotheby’s

Testing confirmed the meteorite, composed of olivine-microgabbroic shergottite, originated from Mars, likely ejected by an impact in recent years. Its distinct chemical signature aligns with samples obtained by the Viking space probes in 1976.

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World

The countries that received Trump’s tariff letters – and where things stand now

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor
written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

Trump’s Tariff Threats Roil Global Trade

Canada, Brazil, and over 20 nations face potential import tax hikes starting August 1.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump is escalating trade tensions by threatening increased tariffs on numerous countries if they don’t agree to new deals. These potential taxes, outlined in letters sent this week, are slated to take effect August 1, creating uncertainty in international commerce.

Canada Faces Significant Tariff Hike

While Canada did not receive a letter in April, it already confronts tariffs on steel and aluminum. Now, Trump has declared that a 35% tariff will be imposed on Canadian goods beginning August 1, potentially straining the relationship between the two nations.

Brazil Threatened with 50% Tariff

Brazil is facing a steep 50% tariff starting August 1. Unusually, Brazil had not been previously warned about these elevated “reciprocal” rates. However, like almost every other country, Brazil has already dealt with at least a 10% levy on goods entering the U.S. since April.

In response, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva warned that Trump’s tariffs would trigger Brazil’s economic reciprocity law, allowing the suspension of agreements against countries harming its competitiveness, while noting the U.S. has held a trade surplus of over $410 billion with Brazil over the past 15 years.

Responses from Other Nations

Several other nations have also received tariff letters, and here’s how they are reacting:

Myanmar

Tariff rate: 40% starting August 1, down from 44% in April. A spokesperson for Myanmar’s military government, Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, stated they would pursue negotiations.

Cambodia

Tariff rate: 36% starting August 1, reduced from 49% in April. Negotiator Sun Chanthol highlighted the successful decrease in the tariff and expressed readiness for further talks, urging garment workers and factory owners not to panic.

Thailand

Tariff rate: 36% starting August 1, unchanged from April. Deputy Prime Minister Pichai Chunhavajira said Thailand is pushing for negotiations, proposing to open the Thai market for more American agricultural and industrial products, and increasing imports of energy and aircraft.

Bangladesh

Tariff rate: 35% starting August 1, down from 37% in April. Finance adviser Salehuddin Ahmed expressed hope for a better outcome through negotiation, noting concerns about competitiveness with Vietnam and India.

Japan

Tariff rate: 25% starting August 1, increased from 24% in April. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba called the tariff “extremely regrettable” but remains determined to continue negotiating.

South Korea

Tariff rate: 25% starting August 1, the same as announced in April. The Trade Ministry announced plans to accelerate negotiations to reach a deal before the tariffs take effect.

List of Affected Nations & Rates

Here’s a quick look at other countries facing tariffs:

  • Laos: 40% (down from 48%)
  • Serbia: 35% (down from 37%)
  • Indonesia: 32% (unchanged)
  • Algeria: 30% (unchanged)
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina: 30% (down from 35%)
  • Iraq: 30% (down from 39%)
  • Libya: 30% (down from 31%)
  • South Africa: 30% (unchanged); President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office stated that the tariff rates mischaracterized the trade relationship and proposed a trade framework on May 20.
  • Sri Lanka: 30% (down from 44%)
  • Brunei: 25% (up from 24%)
  • Moldova: 25% (down from 31%)
  • Kazakhstan: 25% (down from 27%)
  • Malaysia: 25% (up from 24%); the government plans talks with the U.S.
  • Tunisia: 25% (down from 28%)
  • Philippines: 20% (down from 17%)

The Peterson Institute for International Economics estimates that these tariffs could disrupt global supply chains, potentially raising consumer prices (PIIE 2024).

These tariff threats signal a possible shift in U.S. trade strategy, one that could reshape international commerce. It remains to be seen whether these tactics will lead to new trade agreements or further escalate global trade tensions.

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World

Trump’s Policy Bill Passes Congress: What’s Inside

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor
written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

Here’s a summary of teh article, focusing on the key points:

Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” Passes Congress

what it is: A sprawling legislative package encompassing tax cuts, increased spending on border security and deportations, cuts to social programs (healthcare, food stamps), and the rollback of climate change initiatives.
 Key Provisions:
$46 billion for a border wall.
 $45 billion for immigration detention facilities.
$14 billion to increase deportations.
 Permanent extension of 2017 tax cuts for corporations and

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Business

LNG Canada starts exports to Asia and explores pathways to expansion

by Priya Shah – Business Editor
written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Canada’s First LNG Shipment Sets Sail for Asia

Canada has launched its first shipment of liquefied natural gas to Asia, marking a new stage in energy exports. This landmark move aims to diversify markets, reducing reliance on the United States and establishing Canada as a key player in the global LNG market.

A New Era Begins

The GasLog Glasgow tanker departed from Kitimat, British Columbia, on Monday, carrying the initial LNG cargo from the LNG Canada terminal. The terminal’s construction began nearly seven years prior. Shell PLC-led LNG Canada is also contemplating expanding its operations.

“We continue to explore pathways with our partners for a potential Phase 2. There are no guarantees at the minute,”

—Chris Cooper, Chief Executive Officer, LNG Canada

The cost of the project’s first phase reached $48.3 billion, which includes the Kitimat terminal and the Coastal GasLink pipeline. Once fully operational, approximately 170 vessels annually will transport LNG to Asian markets. The global LNG market is projected to reach $230 billion by 2028, demonstrating substantial growth (Mordor Intelligence 2023).

Diverse Perspectives

While this event marks a significant milestone, it also sparks debate. Climate activists and environmental groups are urging a greater focus on renewable energy sources rather than fossil fuels, such as LNG. The International Institute for Sustainable Development voiced concerns that any further LNG investments could potentially create an oversupply.

Statements and Celebrations

Canadian leaders issued statements to celebrate Monday’s departure. Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that with this shipment, Canada is exporting its energy to reliable partners, diversifying trade, and cutting global emissions. B.C. Premier David Eby emphasized the significance of accessing global markets and decreasing dependency on the United States.

LNG Canada is mulling expanding operations that could double the plant’s capacity to 28 million tonnes a year.

At the peak of construction in 2023, the project required over 9,000 workers on rotation at the Kitimat industrial site. LNG Canada will employ up to 350 workers during operations. Crystal Smith, the Haisla chief councillor, highlighted the project’s respect for Indigenous communities.

Partners and Projects

Shell holds the largest stake in LNG Canada, with 40 percent, followed by Malaysia’s Petronas at 25 percent. Executives from the partners issued statements to mark the first shipment. François Poirier, the CEO of TC Energy, emphasized that this is just the beginning of Canada’s LNG journey. Other active LNG projects in B.C. include Woodfibre LNG, Cedar LNG, Ksi Lisims LNG, and Tilbury LNG.

LNG Canada starts exports to Asia and explores pathways to expansion
The LNG tanker GasLog Glasgow clears the dock at the LNG Canada facility in Kitimat, B.C., on Monday. The tanker is carrying LNG Canada’s first export of liquefied natural gas to Asia.

This event sets a precedent for future energy export projects and their impact on Canada’s economy and international relationships, while the industry navigates environmental considerations.

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World

LNG Canada: First Export Cargo Loaded in B.C

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor
written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

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First LNG Cargo Departs from LNG Canada Terminal, Bound for Asia

Table of Contents

Kitimat, BC – The GasLog Glasgow tanker is preparing to depart from the LNG Canada export terminal with the first shipment of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), marking a pivotal moment for Canada’s energy sector. After nearly seven years of construction, the $18 billion terminal in Kitimat is ready to export LNG to Asian markets.

Key Details of the First LNG Shipment

The Shell PLC-chartered GasLog Glasgow, measuring 291 meters in length and sailing under the flag of Bermuda, arrived on Saturday to load the inaugural LNG cargo. The vessel is expected to set sail early next week, embarking on a journey to North Asia [1].

Following loading at LNG Canada’s marine terminal, tugboat escorts will pilot the tanker nearly 300 kilometers out of Douglas channel to open ocean waters.

Did You know? The journey from Kitimat to North Asia takes approximately 10 days, significantly shorter than the 20 days required from the U.S. Gulf Coast via the Panama Canal.

LNG Canada Project Overview

LNG Canada, which secured its export license in 2013, commenced terminal construction in 2018. The facility is situated on a Kitimat industrial site within the traditional territory of the Haisla Nation.

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