Flydubai Passengers Return to Israel After Security Incident in Saudi Arabia

A Flydubai flight carrying passengers from Dubai to Israel landed in Israel on Wednesday evening, approximately eight hours after being diverted to Saudi Arabia due to a security incident. The flight, FZ1073, had issued a distress signal over Jordanian airspace before changing course and landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Flydubai stated the signal was triggered by an altercation between members of the flight crew. Israeli reports suggest authorities are investigating the possibility that the co-pilot, an Omani national, attempted to hijack the plane, but was prevented by the pilot, an Emirati national. Security sources told Kan news that there are concerns about copycat attacks inspired by the incident. The co-pilot is reportedly under investigation by Saudi authorities, though no evidence of state or organizational involvement has emerged. Saudi Arabia reportedly denied an Israeli request for Israeli aircraft to evacuate the passengers. Flydubai then dispatched a replacement aircraft, but some passengers initially hesitated to board due to safety concerns following the incident. Several passengers communicated with Israeli Transportation Minister Miri Regev and National Security Council officials. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to greet the passengers upon their arrival at Ben Gurion Airport.