Flydubai Flight to Tel Aviv Makes Emergency Landing in Saudi Arabia Amid Suspected Terror Attack

A flydubai flight en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv was forced to make an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, on Wednesday morning following a serious incident in the cockpit. Israeli authorities are now investigating the event as a potential terror attack. The aircraft, carrying over 100 Israeli passengers, landed safely, and all passengers were unharmed, confirmed the airline.

According to Israeli officials, one of the pilots allegedly stabbed the other before attempting to seize control of the plane. Crew members, with the assistance of some Israeli passengers, reportedly subdued the assailant, allowing other pilots on board to take over the controls. An Israeli official stated that a "major catastrophe was narrowly avoided." During the incident, flight FZ1073 experienced a rapid altitude loss of nearly 4,000 meters, with data showing a drop of approximately 14,000 feet in under 30 seconds. The crew initially transmitted emergency code 7700, then changed to 7500, indicating an unlawful interference aboard the aircraft.

In response, the Israeli Air Force scrambled fighter jets, and Israeli airspace was temporarily closed. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held security consultations. Israeli security services, including the Mossad and Shin Bet, are prioritizing the possibility of a terrorist act. Initial reports suggest the suspected pilot might be of Omani nationality, though this is still under verification. Oman does not have diplomatic relations with Israel.

Israeli Minister of Transport Miri Regev has requested the Shin Bet suspend flydubai flights to and from Israel pending clarification. The exact circumstances and motivations behind the alleged perpetrator's actions remain under investigation. The Tabuk airport confirmed both pilots sustained injuries and were hospitalized. No evidence currently links the incident to a state or terrorist organization. Flydubai is sending another aircraft to Saudi Arabia to repatriate the passengers to Tel Aviv.