ATLANTA — The sentencing hearing for a convicted terrorist who plotted to carry out a 9/11-style attack in Atlanta has been put on hold until December.

Cholo Abdi Abdullah, a member of the terrorist group al-Shabaab, returned to court Monday as both sides prepare for his long-delayed sentencing.

Abdullah was convicted on multiple terrorism-related charges for planning to hijack a commercial airliner and crash it into the 55-story Bank of America Plaza in downtown Atlanta.

Prosecutors say Abdullah trained in explosives and aviation in the Philippines to execute the deadly plan, which he admitted was aimed at killing as many people as possible.

Abdullah told investigators he specifically targeted Atlanta due to the city’s status as a major air travel hub.

Monday’s court hearing is a chance for the judge and lawyers to talk through any remaining issues before Abdullah is sentenced. One key issue is his request for new lawyers. Sentencing was supposed to happen months ago but has been delayed because of this and other legal matters.

Prosecutors are seeking a life sentence for Abdullah, who remains in custody. The hearing is scheduled for Dec. 8 at 10 a.m. according to officials.

WSB’s Steve Summers contributed to this story