Israeli Passengers Thwart Hijacking Attempt on Flydubai Flight

Israeli passengers aboard a Flydubai flight bound for Israel recounted their harrowing experience after successfully subduing an attacker who attempted to hijack the plane. The flight, which had diverted to Saudi Arabia, landed safely in Israel with all passengers accounted for.

One passenger, Yaniv Hayun, described the chaos that ensued when a passenger shouted about stabbings, causing the plane to shake violently and the lights to go out. He rushed to the cockpit, noting that the door was unlocked, which allowed him and a crew member to enter, pull the attacker out, and gain control.

Assaf Rajuan, another passenger who helped neutralize the attacker, stated that five individuals worked together to subdue the assailant. He mentioned that the attacker was already somewhat incapacitated from an earlier confrontation with the pilot. Rajuan emphasized their efforts to prevent the attacker from reaching the cockpit again to avoid a potential hijacking.

Dr. Shota Musayev, who treated the injured pilot, described the scene as chaotic with panic and screams. He praised the passengers' teamwork and bravery, noting that "a few more moments and we wouldn't be here." The pilot sustained multiple stab wounds and lost a significant amount of blood but was reported to be out of mortal danger.

The passengers' quick thinking and decisive action prevented a potential disaster, allowing the flight to eventually reach its destination in Israel.