Matthew Cox | Inside True Crime Podcast D.B. Cooper 2.0: The Skyjacker Who Stole $500K & Survived
Nov 27, 2025
Martin McNally, a former bank robber and aircraft hijacker, dives into the audacious details of his 1972 skyjacking inspired by D.B. Cooper. He shares how he meticulously planned the heist, the thrill of demanding $500,000, and the chaotic aftermath of his midair jump. Listeners will be captivated by his narrow escapes, the frantic search that followed, and the dramatic courtroom battles that led to his life sentences. McNally’s incredible journey from crime to redemption adds an intriguing layer to this wild true crime tale.
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The Midflight Preparation And Demand
- Martin McNally describes boarding the plane, disguising himself in the lavatory, and brandishing a WWII-style grease gun to terrorize passengers and crew.
- He forced seating changes, handed a note to a flight attendant, and demanded $500,000 and parachutes midflight.
Money Hand-Off And Stewardess Reaction
- McNally received $500,000 in sealed bags and a separate $2,500 bundle of mostly ones that he called "garbage."
- He gave stewardesses $1,500 in tips hoping they'd keep it, but they turned it over to the FBI.
Cadillac Rams The Plane On The Tarmac
- A drunken man (David Hanley) drove a Cadillac onto the runway and collided with the plane's nose gear, disabling the aircraft before takeoff.
- The crash forced a plane swap and delayed McNally's timetable significantly.
