Flydubai Pilot Attacked, Plane Makes Emergency Landing in Saudi Arabia

A Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv experienced a severe incident on September 30 when one of the pilots allegedly attacked the co-pilot with a knife and attempted to crash the plane. Videos circulating on social media show the co-pilot, an Indian national, bleeding heavily and receiving medical attention on the aircraft floor. Passengers, including prominent Israeli businessman Zvika Mans, reportedly intervened to subdue the assailant, identified as an Omani national.

The aircraft, flight FZ 1073, suddenly entered a steep dive shortly after takeoff, losing over 4 kilometers of altitude in less than 30 seconds, according to flight monitoring services. The crew declared an emergency, initially transmitting code 7700 for a general emergency, followed by code 7500, indicating hijacking. Israeli fighter jets were scrambled as a precaution. The plane then diverted course towards Saudi Arabia and landed safely in Tabuk.

Israeli intelligence agencies are investigating the incident as a potential terror attack rather than a suicide attempt. The Shin Bet plans to question Israeli passengers upon their return. Saudi Arabia has detained both pilots involved. Flydubai confirmed the incident, stating the aircraft landed safely and all passengers are secure, and that they are cooperating with authorities.

One passenger described the terrifying moments, recounting hearing screams from the cockpit and seeing blood. "We felt like we were about to crash," she said, adding that Israelis and crew members subdued the attacker. Another passenger confirmed the situation was brought under control, with the injured pilot being attended to and the cabin door secured. The aircraft sustained damage to its tail rudder during the incident.