Israel pledges full probe after co-pilot attacks flydubai flight
A co-pilot stabbed the captain on flydubai flight FZ1073, prompting passengers to subdue him and land the aircraft safely in Saudi Arabia; Israeli officials say the motive remains unknown.
Flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv experienced a violent incident when the co-pilot stabbed the captain, triggering a rapid 14,000-foot descent over Saudi airspace. The captain, despite his injuries, managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers to restrain the attacker and a reserve crew to take control, resulting in a safe landing at Tabuk airport. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the suspect, identified as an Omani national, is being investigated in Saudi Arabia and may be transferred to the United Arab Emirates, while Israeli intelligence services, including Mossad and Shin Bet, are also examining the case.
No motive has been established, and officials have not found evidence of Iranian involvement. The United Arab Emirates has opened its own inquiry, citing jurisdiction over the UAE-registered aircraft. The incident has heightened security concerns ahead of Israel's upcoming election.
Why it matters
The attack on a commercial flight raises serious aviation security concerns and could affect regional diplomatic relations.
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