Hijacking

SDS+ Section 250

Also known as: Hijacking of Aircraft

Legislation

Statute

Aviation Security Act 1982

Section

Section 1

Life Sentence Eligible

Yes

Classification

244ZA(7) violent Schedule15 Part1 Section250
Triggers section 244ZA release provisions (SDS+) - served at 2/3 of sentence
Classified as a violent offence
Listed in Schedule 15 of the Criminal Justice Act 2003
Part 1 of Schedule 15: Specified violent offences
Eligible for Section 250 youth detention (offenders under 18) - release at 50%

Release Information

How this offence affects release dates under the Sentencing Act 2026

Section 244ZA(7) Offence - SDS+ Release

This offence triggers the special release provisions under section 244ZA of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 (as amended by the Sentencing Act 2026).

  • Standard release point: Two-thirds (⅔) of the custodial term
  • Applies to: Sentences of 4 years or more
  • Note: Additional criteria may apply based on sentence date

Youth Detention (Section 250)

Special release rules for offenders sentenced when under 18

Section 250 Youth Detention Applies

When this offence is committed by someone under 18 years old, Section 250 of the Sentencing Act 2020 governs their release:

  • Release point: Halfway (50%) of the custodial term
  • Not affected by SA 2026: Youth sentences are NOT subject to the one-third release changes
  • Applies to: Detention in a Young Offender Institution or Secure Training Centre
Learn More About Youth Sentencing

Further Reading

Guides and resources related to this offence

How SA 2026 affects SDS+ sentences Section 244ZA explained in detail Complete guide to youth sentencing Prison and legal terminology glossary

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Possession of Offensive Weapon

Prevention of Crime Act 1953 s.1

Conspiracy to Cause GBH SDS+

Criminal Law Act 1977 s.1

Offences relating to Channel Tunnel trains and system SDS+

Channel Tunnel (Security) Order 1994 s.Art 4

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