Unusual Aircraft Theft Raises Concerns About Airport Security
NORTH LAS VEGAS, NV (Las Vegas Times) - In a bizarre turn of events, a 2020 Kitfox fixed-wing single-engine type aircraft was stolen from North Las Vegas airport over the weekend, sparking concerns about airport security. The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Damian Zukaitis, allegedly burglarized the plane and later landed it in the desert near Barstow.
The plane's owner made a shocking discovery upon finding the stolen aircraft, revealing an unexpected scene inside the cockpit. Part of a marijuana joint lay on the floor, accompanied by numerous beer cans and bottles. Authorities were unable to fly the plane back to North Las Vegas due to damage sustained to the propeller and engine during the unauthorized flight.
The Air Force played a crucial role in alerting the owner to the theft, contacting them to inquire about a potential crash or hard landing outside Barstow. An "Emergency Locator Transmitter" sensor had been triggered, automatically notifying authorities of a potential accident.
Zukaitis was swiftly apprehended by the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Office, now facing charges of possession of a stolen airplane and transporting stolen property across state lines. Further charges are pending for alleged crimes committed in Nevada. Additionally, Zukaitis has an outstanding felony probation violation warrant from Ada County in Idaho, stemming from previous charges of felony stalking, misdemeanor battery, and attempted violations of a no-contact order.
This incident has brought attention to broader security concerns at the North Las Vegas airport. Police suspect Zukaitis may be linked to a series of burglaries targeting other planes on December 27, 28, and 29, with one plane reportedly being burglarized twice.
Pilots and aviation professionals are now expressing their concerns about the safety of the airport, calling for increased surveillance, enhanced security measures, or additional personnel. Jeffrey Lustick, a veteran pilot and aviation attorney, suggested a meeting between pilots and airport officials to address and discuss safety measures.
In response to inquiries about security measures, a spokesperson for the Harry Reid Airport released a statement, confirming that the incident remains an active investigation. Any further questions or concerns were directed to the North Las Vegas Police Department.
As the investigation unfolds, the aviation community in North Las Vegas anxiously awaits answers regarding the motive behind the theft and whether this incident will prompt significant changes to airport security protocols.