Questions surround the motives of a flydubai co-pilot who allegedly stabbed the captain of flight FZ1073 en route to Israel, in what Israeli officials are investigating as a potential attempt to crash the aircraft with over 170 people aboard.
The incident on Wednesday's flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv was averted when the wounded captain managed to unlock the cockpit door, enabling passengers and reserve crew to subdue the attacker. The plane subsequently landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the attacker was under investigation in Saudi Arabia and expressed anticipation that he would be transferred to the United Arab Emirates. "We'll be following and possibly also participating in this investigation," Netanyahu told Fox News, adding that efforts were underway to determine if the attacker had accomplices or if Iran was involved, though he cautioned it was too early to confirm any external involvement.
The UAE has initiated its own investigation to ascertain the circumstances and motives behind the event, seeking to determine any links to terrorist activity, planning, or direction. Judicial authorities in the UAE assert jurisdiction over the incident as the aircraft is registered and flies under the UAE flag, with UAE law applicable to crimes committed aboard regardless of location.
Initial reports identified the attacker as an Omani national, though Omani authorities have not yet commented. The flight experienced a steep descent of nearly 14,000 feet within 30 seconds over Saudi Arabia before the situation was brought under control. Flydubai has advised against premature speculation, emphasizing that the underlying reasons for the event remain unknown.
The captain, identified as Indian national Smit Machchhar, has been widely hailed as a hero for his actions. Passengers who assisted in subduing the assailant have also been commended. One passenger described the chaotic moments, stating, "We pulled the assailant out... After I pulled him out we took control of the plane, I pulled up the yoke... I straightened the plane out a bit."
