Omani Flydubai Co-Pilot Linked to Suspected Terror Plot on Israel-Bound Flight

A co-pilot on a Flydubai flight heading to Israel is suspected of carrying out a terror-related act, and he is identified as an Omani national employed by the carrier for fewer than twelve months. Israeli authorities are investigating the possibility that he may also hold Israeli citizenship, a factor that could contravene the travel restrictions between the two countries. Ministers in Israel have called on the Civil Aviation Authority to review whether the United Arab Emirates has violated its aviation agreement with Israel, which permits landings only for pilots whose passports come from states that maintain diplomatic ties with Israel.

Oman does not have diplomatic relations with Israel, and its citizens must secure a visa to enter. The suspect and a wounded fellow pilot have been taken to hospitals in Saudi Arabia for treatment. The incident has raised questions about compliance with the aviation deal and the vetting of flight crew members.