FlyDubai Flight to Tel Aviv Transmits Hijack Signal, Diverts to Saudi Arabia

A FlyDubai Boeing 737 MAX 8 en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv on Wednesday, September 30, transmitted distress signals indicating a potential hijacking. The aircraft's crew initially sent out code 7700, an international signal for general emergency, followed by code 7500, which signifies unlawful interference or hijacking. Israeli Air Force fighter jets were dispatched to intercept the plane.

However, the flight altered its course, appearing to head towards Saudi Arabia according to its trajectory. The aircraft then made a turn over Jordan before losing contact with air traffic control. At the time of the last signal, the plane was at 5,000 feet, approximately 1.5 hours from its scheduled landing in Israel. It disappeared from flight tracking applications.

Reports indicate approximately 180 passengers were aboard, though the Boeing 737 MAX 8 typically carries around 150 passengers. Israeli security services believe the plane will likely land in Saudi Arabia, based on its flight path and other verified parameters. They are investigating any potential links between the aircraft and Saudi authorities. The plane later established communication with Saudi entities before its presumed landing.

Preliminary theories suggest the alert may have stemmed from an onboard altercation, possibly a fight between pilots, which triggered the emergency codes. Security systems are leaning towards this explanation rather than an actual hijacking, although the situation remains unclear. In response to the developing situation, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held an urgent meeting with Defense Minister Israel Katz and Transportation Minister Miri Regev.

This incident follows another disruption on Tuesday, when an El Al flight from Tel Aviv to Miami, LY017, returned to Israel due to a technical malfunction after six hours of flight.