Attempted hijack of flydubai aircraft
Quick summary
- •Flydubai Flight FZ 1073, carrying more than 170 passengers from Dubai to Tel Aviv, diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, after the co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain mid-flight. The aircraft dropped from 33,000 to 17,000 feet before stabilising. Passengers and off-duty pilots subdued the co-pilot. Both pilots received hospital treatment, while authorities investigate the incident.
A Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, on Wednesday after the co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain in the cockpit. The aircraft was carrying more than 170 passengers.
The plane descended sharply from 33,000 feet to 17,000 feet within about a minute before stabilising. Passengers and off-duty pilots on board intervened and subdued the co-pilot, allowing the aircraft to be brought under control.
Emergency landing
Flydubai Flight FZ 1073 issued a distress signal at 8:44 a.m. local time and landed safely at Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Tabuk at 9:45 a.m. The injured captain and the co-pilot were taken to a local hospital, while Saudi authorities detained the co-pilot for questioning.
Passengers were later provided safe transit to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, where they were met by family members. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the passengers and crew who intervened.
Investigation continues
Flydubai urged caution against premature speculation as aviation authorities and international intelligence agencies investigate the incident. The circumstances and motive behind the alleged attack have not yet been established.