Flydubai Flight Diverted After Pilot Attack, Israeli Passengers Intervened
Translated & summarized from Al-Shams by baba
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Flydubai flight diverted to Saudi Arabia after pilot altercation.
- One pilot allegedly stabbed the other in the cockpit.
- Israeli passengers intervened to regain control of the plane.
- Israeli officials called the incident a terrorist attack attempt.
- All passengers and crew are safe; investigation is ongoing.
A Flydubai flight en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv was forced to divert to Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia following an incident in the cockpit. Reports indicate a dispute occurred between the pilots, leading to a sharp descent of the aircraft. The brother of a passenger recounted his sister's experience, stating she was under significant pressure and that passengers "saw death with their own eyes" during the terrifying ordeal.
According to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, one pilot allegedly stabbed the other. Netanyahu stated that Israeli passengers intervened, entering the cockpit to regain control of the situation. Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant described the incident as a "jihadist terrorist attack attempt," suggesting the suspect intended to crash the plane and kill everyone on board.
Flydubai confirmed a dispute between two pilots during the flight, adding that crew members secured the aircraft and successfully diverted it to Tabuk. The airline assured that all passengers and crew were safe and that an investigation into the causes and motives is ongoing.
Following the landing, Israeli passengers remained in Saudi Arabia awaiting arrangements for their return to Israel. Israeli authorities have been in contact with Saudi officials regarding their repatriation.
Read the original at Al-Shams
