FlyDubai co-pilot attacks captain with axe on Dubai-Tel Aviv flight, authorities say
UAE prosecutors say an Omani co-pilot used a crash axe to stab the captain of FlyDubai flight FZ1073, causing a rapid 13,000-foot descent before passengers and crew subdued him. Investigations are ongoing in the UAE and Israel.
UAE prosecutors announced that an Omani national, identified as Hamam al-Hammami, attacked the captain of FlyDubai flight FZ1073 with a crash axe while the aircraft was en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The assault caused the plane to lose altitude rapidly, dropping about 13,000 feet in 30 seconds before passengers and crew restrained the co-pilot and regained control.
The incident, which occurred on Wednesday morning, involved more than 170 passengers and crew. The captain, Smit Machchhar, was stabbed but managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers to intervene. He is receiving medical treatment in an Abu Dhabi hospital.
Israeli officials said they will participate in the UAE-led investigation and may question the suspect. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that anyone responsible would face severe consequences.
According to reports, al-Hammami had been barred from flying in Oman last year over concerns about radical ideological views, yet he remained employed by FlyDubai. Authorities are examining physical and digital evidence to determine the motive and any possible connections.
FlyDubai said the case remains under investigation. The incident has heightened security concerns ahead of upcoming Israeli elections.