John Wigger

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.

John Wigger, a history professor at the University of Missouri and author, dives into the thrilling world of 1970s airline hijackings, sparked by the infamous D.B. Cooper. He unpacks the chaotic socio-political climate that led to a wave of daring hijack attempts, including Martin McNally's audacious plot. Listeners will hear about bold civilian interventions during these crises, the evolution of hijacking tactics, and how public perception shifted, reflecting on the cultural significance and safety reforms that followed.