Israelis Hesitate Boarding Flydubai Rescue Flight After Pilot Attack

A Flydubai rescue flight has begun boarding passengers in Saudi Arabia to bring Israelis back to their home country following an unusual incident. However, some Israelis are refusing to board the flight due to fear stemming from the event, prompting Israeli authorities to simultaneously work with Saudi officials to arrange for an alternative aircraft from an Israeli airline.

Onboard the original flight, which carried 166 passengers, the co-pilot reportedly attacked the pilot, nearly causing a crash. While some passengers have started boarding the Flydubai rescue plane, others are opting to stay on the ground, expressing apprehension about flying with the same airline again. Israeli security and political systems are monitoring the situation closely.

Israel is exploring the possibility of chartering a plane to transport the passengers back, seeking approval from Saudi authorities to use an Israeli airline without national markings. A decision on this matter is expected soon. Security officials assess that the incident was likely not directed by Iran, with the perpetrator believed to have acted alone, though the investigation, led by the Mossad, is ongoing.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accepted Transportation Minister Miri Regev's recommendation to temporarily halt Flydubai flights to and from Israel until the incident is fully investigated. Netanyahu praised the "heroes" on the flight for their "resourcefulness and courage" and instructed the security establishment to prepare for potential further threats.

Ben Gurion Airport is preparing to receive the passengers, with a dedicated area set up for them and their families. This incident is considered one of the most unusual in recent civil aviation history concerning flights to Israel.