The Use of Force Against Civil Aircraft Intrusions: Legal Challenges and Christian Ethical Perspectives in Grey Zone Conflicts

Redion Luli; Hajdi Xhixha

doi:10.18290/kip2026.12

Published : 2026-06-29

Vol. 15 No. 1 (2026)

The Use of Force Against Civil Aircraft Intrusions: Legal Challenges and Christian Ethical Perspectives in Grey Zone Conflicts

Redion Luli

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6608-023X

Hajdi Xhixha

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2584-5109

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18290/kip2026.12

Abstract

This article examines the increasing threats from the misuse of civil aviation, especially in hybrid warfare, global terrorism, and illegal activities, while also exploring the moral and religious dilemmas related to force against civilian aircraft carrying innocent passengers. It reviews the international legal framework governing force against intruders on civil aircraft and identifies gaps in current aviation law. The research uses a comparative legal approach, analysing agreements like the Chicago and Beijing Conventions, as well as national laws from countries such as the US, Russia, and Iran that have experienced civil aircraft intrusions. Additionally, it considers religious and ethical perspectives, especially Christian Just War Theory, to evaluate the legitimacy of force against hijacked or weaponised civilian aircraft. The study also includes case studies like the September 11 attacks, the downing of Korean Air Flight 007 by the Soviet Union, Iran Air Flight 655, and MH17 to analyse historical precedents.

Keywords:

misuse of civil aviation, international air law, use of force against aircraft intruders, just war theory, Christian ethics, protection of innocent life, moral theology

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Luli, R., & Xhixha, H. (2026). The Use of Force Against Civil Aircraft Intrusions: Legal Challenges and Christian Ethical Perspectives in Grey Zone Conflicts. Kościół I Prawo, 15(1), 183–207. https://doi.org/10.18290/kip2026.12

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