John Wigger, a History Professor, discusses the 1970s hijacking craze inspired by D.B. Cooper. Topics include the tactics of hijackers, the era of airline hijackings, daring intervention incidents, chaotic aftermaths of plane damage, and the evolution of airline security. The podcast explores the lasting impact of the DB Cooper case and the trend of skyjackings in the 70s.
DB Cooper's daring heist inspired a wave of copycat hijackings in the 70s.
The 1970s hijacking craze led to the implementation of stricter security measures in aviation history.
Deep dives
The Hijacking Craze of the 1970s
In the 1970s, a wave of airline hijackings swept through America, with over 140 incidents occurring between 1968 and 1972. These hijackings were marked by the daring actions of individuals like DB Cooper, who inspired a series of copycat crimes involving ransom demands and parachute escapes. The period of hijacking coincided with a turbulent era of political, social, and cultural change, reflecting the unraveling of the national fabric. Despite the initial lack of security measures and public nonchalance towards hijackings, the escalating violence and frequency of incidents led to a shift in public opinion and the implementation of stricter security protocols.
DB Cooper: The Mystery Man
DB Cooper, a mysterious hijacker who became a folk hero, stands out as one of the most enigmatic figures in the hijacking spree. Cooper's calm demeanor, polite interactions with stewardesses, and successful parachute escape after demanding a ransom of $200,000 made him an intriguing and admired character. Despite the widespread belief that Cooper perished during his daring jump from a 727 aircraft, the absence of conclusive evidence has perpetuated the mystery surrounding his fate. His unique modus operandi, involving detailed aerial instructions and strategic maneuvers, set him apart as a captivating figure in aviation history.
The Influence of DB Cooper and Copycat Hijackings
DB Cooper's infamous hijacking in 1971 sparked a series of copycat crimes by individuals seeking to replicate his audacious escape. Subsequent hijackers, such as Martin McNally and Rob Hetty, were motivated by the allure of Cooper's successful heist and daring parachute jump. Each hijacker, driven by personal struggles and military experiences, attempted to emulate Cooper's feat, leading to a brief yet intense period of hijackings marked by defiance of authorities and inventive escape plans. The influence of DB Cooper and the subsequent copycat hijackings underscored a unique chapter in American aviation history, characterized by a blend of criminal daring and cultural admiration.
End of an Era: Improved Security and Decline of Hijackings
The era of hijacking in the 1970s came to an end as heightened security measures, including metal detectors and X-ray machines, were implemented to curb the escalating incidents. The airline industry's shift towards stricter security protocols reflected a response to the growing public concern over safety and the disruptive impact of hijackings. The successful adoption of enhanced security measures in 1973 marked a significant decline in attempted hijackings, signaling the conclusion of a turbulent period in aviation history characterized by daring escapades and criminal audacity.
On 23 June 1972, a man boarded American Airlines Flight 119 in St Louis. He sat most of the way to Tulsa before donning a wig and a pair of gloves in the restroom, taking out a gun and handing a member of the cabin crew a note.
'Don't panic. This is a ransom hijacking.'
To find out more about this man, what he hoped to gain from his crimes, and how he and others were inspired by D.B. Cooper, Don speaks to John Wigger. John is a Professor of History at the University of Missouri and the author of ‘The Hijacking of American Flight 119: How D.B. Cooper Inspired a Skyjacking Craze and the FBI's Battle to Stop It’.
Produced and edited by Sophie Gee. Senior Producer was Charlotte Long.
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