Flydubai Plane Diverted to Saudi Arabia After Co-Pilot Attack

A Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv was diverted to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday following a violent incident in the cockpit where the co-pilot allegedly stabbed the pilot and attempted to crash the plane. The flight, FZ 1073, carrying approximately 100 Israeli passengers, experienced a rapid descent of over 14,000 feet per minute. The pilot managed to activate a general distress signal and then a hijack alert before losing contact. Israeli fighter jets were scrambled, and Saudi Arabian fighter jets later escorted the plane during its emergency landing in Saudi Arabia around 10:00 AM.

Passengers reported hearing screams and seeing blood in the cockpit. One passenger described the scene as terrifying, stating they believed it was the end. Israeli passengers and crew members reportedly intervened, overpowering the co-pilot. The airline confirmed the incident and stated that a replacement aircraft would be sent from Dubai to Saudi Arabia to bring the passengers safely to Israel. The Prime Minister's office assured that the situation was under control and all measures were being taken to ensure the passengers' safe return.

Initial reports suggested a hijacking, prompting urgent discussions among Israel's Prime Minister, the military chief of staff, and security officials. The Israeli military command held emergency assessments throughout the event. The Saudi Arabian police have opened an investigation into the incident, the details of which are still being clarified. The co-pilot and pilot were removed from the aircraft upon landing, and passengers were instructed to remain seated until further notice.