Passengers Safe After FlyDubai Flight Incident in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
TABUK, Saudi Arabia – A FlyDubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv was diverted to Tabuk after a co-pilot attempted to crash the aircraft on Wednesday afternoon.
The incident, involving flight FZ1073, occurred when the co-pilot allegedly stabbed the pilot, causing the plane to drop nearly 14,000 feet within 30 seconds. Passengers and crew intervened, overpowering the assailant and allowing another pair of pilots aboard the flight to safely land the jet.
Israeli officials confirmed that all 174 passengers, predominantly Israeli nationals, completed their journey to Tel Aviv approximately ten hours later aboard a replacement aircraft. One injured individual, a 51-year-old man, was hospitalized in Israel but is in stable condition.
Authorities indicated that the motive behind the co-pilot's actions remains under investigation. The attacker has been identified as an Omani national. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu classified the situation as a “serious security incident,” expressing gratitude for the quick response of the passengers.
FlyDubai issued a statement emphasizing that the reasons for the incident are still unclear and cautioning against “premature speculation.” The airline confirmed that both pilots were hospitalized following the occurrence.
In response to the event, Israeli officials stated they would reinforce security checks on pilots entering the country. This incident has resulted in heightened concerns regarding aviation security across the region, particularly as Israel approaches its election period.
The UAE aviation regulator reported that the flight experienced a security incident that was managed effectively, assuring all passengers' safety.