Flydubai Pilot Investigated in Saudi Arabia After Alleged Hijacking Attempt

A Flydubai flight en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv experienced a distress signal and diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, on Wednesday after an alleged altercation between the pilots. Israeli security officials indicated that the incident appears to be the act of a lone perpetrator, not linked to any state or terrorist organization, and suggested the co-pilot, an Omani citizen, may have attempted to hijack the plane and crash it. The captain, an Emirati citizen, is credited with preventing the attempt. During the confrontation, the aircraft reportedly lost 14,000 feet in altitude within a minute.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed to ensure the safety of Israeli passengers, who were stranded in Saudi Arabia for approximately eight hours. Saudi Arabia reportedly denied an Israeli request to use its own aircraft to collect the passengers. Consequently, Flydubai dispatched a replacement plane, though some passengers initially hesitated to board due to security concerns. The Israeli security cabinet, including the Shin Bet, Mossad, IDF, and Ministry of Transportation, has launched a joint investigation into the incident, examining how the crew was assembled and whether prior indicators were missed.

Israeli authorities are also concerned about potential "inspiration attacks" and have increased security globally. The motive is believed to be an attempt to undermine the Abraham Accords. Netanyahu was also expected to speak with U.S. President Donald Trump later that evening.