Quantcast

D.B. Cooper hijacking case reopens after potential new evidence surfaces

D.B. Cooper hijacking case reopens after potential new evidence surfaces
Policy
Webp 9d8e4n9zvnq6npvse1f7c4oouh5n
Airbus A380 | Airbus

The D.B. Cooper hijacking case, a notorious unsolved mystery, is back in the spotlight as the Federal Bureau of Investigation continues to search for evidence after 53 years. The event occurred on November 24, 1971, when a man using the alias Dan Cooper boarded a flight from Portland to Seattle. During the flight, he demanded $200,000 and four parachutes from the pilot.

Upon landing in Seattle, Cooper exchanged passengers for the ransom and parachutes before instructing the crew to fly to Mexico City. However, shortly after takeoff, he opened a door at the rear of the aircraft and parachuted out. His identity remains unknown.

Over decades, the FBI has interviewed over 800 suspects but has yet to identify Cooper or recover most of the ransom money. In 1980, a boy found some bills matching those used in the ransom along the Columbia River.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

The FBI recently reopened this case with potential new evidence—a parachute possibly linked to Cooper—surfacing. This was found by Richard McCoy or his grandchildren; McCoy was previously considered a suspect due to similar criminal activities but did not match descriptions given by flight attendants.

Cooper had arrived at Portland airport and paid cash for a one-way ticket to Seattle. He wore business attire and ordered bourbon and soda onboard before passing a note claiming he had a bomb.

A significant question remains whether Cooper survived his jump with an unsteerable parachute into rough terrain while dressed inadequately for survival conditions. Despite extensive investigations across various leads nationwide, D.B. Cooper's true identity and fate remain elusive.

The plane involved continued service with other airlines before being dismantled.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

Lufthansa has been recognized as the world's most family-friendly airline by the World Airline Awards 2025.

Jun 17, 2025

Visitors to the 2025 Paris Airshow can explore Emirates' upgraded Business Class and Premium Economy cabins, as well as its Economy Class.

Jun 17, 2025

Emirates has introduced a new range of children's toys and bags available on flights worldwide.

Jun 17, 2025

Emirates has partnered with NBA Cares to renovate the technology and gaming room at the Wheeler-Dowe Club in Indianapolis.

Jun 17, 2025

Ethiopian Airlines has announced the launch of a new route to Hyderabad, expanding its network in India.

Jun 17, 2025

Ethiopian Airlines has been recognized at the SKYTRAX 2025 awards, securing four prestigious titles, including Best Airline in Africa for the eighth consecutive year.

Jun 17, 2025