The purpose of this study was to comprehensively describe all aspects of the phenomenon known as "skyjacking." The latest statistics on airline hijacking are included, which were obtained through written correspondence and personal interviews with Federal Aviation Authority officials in Washington, D. C. and Houston, Texas. Legal and technical journals as well as government documents were reviewed, and on the basis of this review: (1) Both the national and international legal aspects of hijacking activities are provided, (2) The personality and emotional state of the skyjacker are examined, and (3) Prevention measures taken by both the government and the airline industry are discussed, including the sky marshal program, the pre-boarding screening process, and current developments in electronic detection devices. The human dimensions and diverse dangers involved in aircraft piracy are delineated. Specific hijacking attempts are enumerated, illustrated by means of case histories. Stages in the evolution of aircraft hijacking and specific suggestions for security measures are discussed, detailing background factors and concomitant problems. (Author)