NIA launches investigation into cockpit stabbing on flydubai flight
India's National Investigation Agency has opened a case to examine the September 30 cockpit attack in which pilot Smit Machchhar was stabbed on a flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
The National Investigation Agency registered a formal case on October 9 to investigate a mid-air assault that took place on September 30 aboard flydubai flight FZ1073. Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian national, was stabbed by his co-pilot while the aircraft was en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The NIA cited the Anti-Hijacking Act, 2016 and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 as the legal basis for the investigation.
Authorities said the motive appeared to be an effort to hijack the plane or cause it to crash. Machchhar suffered serious injuries but survived. The probe will focus on the circumstances of the attack and any broader security implications.
Why it matters
A cockpit attack raises serious aviation security concerns and prompts a high-level criminal investigation.
How this story developed
- Sep 30 Netanyahu hails Indian pilot who thwarted alleged flydubai sabotage
- Oct 1 The Saudi interior ministry said its initial probe indicates the co-pilot on the Dubai‑to‑Tel Aviv flight assaulted the captain.
- Oct 2 The suspect was transferred to United Arab Emirates authorities.
- Oct 2 President Trump said investigators are working to determine whether Iran is linked to the co‑pilot.
- Oct 2 Israeli carriers have formally requested clearance to restart Dubai routes.
- Oct 3 UAE prosecutors have classified the March incident on Flydubai flight between Dubai and Tel Aviv as a terrorist attack after a co-pilot used an emergency axe against the pilot.
- Oct 3 The aircraft was diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.
- Oct 5 Al‑Hammami was transferred to UAE authorities for interrogation.
- Oct 6 President Trump warned of harsh retaliation against Iran if involvement is proven.
- Oct 6 Interrogations revealed the co‑pilot said his motive was revenge for Gaza and that he had earlier been prohibited from flying due to extremist concerns.
- Oct 8 The Everest ransomware group announced a breach of FlyDubai’s systems and issued an extortion demand.
- Oct 9 The co‑pilot told investigators he acted alone and had met all security requirements.
- Oct 9 The aircraft made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
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