Dentist Recounts Role in Foiling Flydubai Hijacking Attempt

A third passenger, identified as dentist Shota Musaev, has come forward with his account of the incident aboard a Flydubai flight, detailing his role in subduing the co-pilot who attacked the captain. Musaev, the only medical professional on board, joined two other passengers in entering the cockpit to confront the assailant. Together, they managed to restrain the co-pilot, binding his hands and feet with headphone wires.

Musaev stated, "I went to fight the terrorist, not to provide medical assistance." Following the apprehension of the attacker, he provided aid to the severely injured Captain Smith Machchar, helping to stop his bleeding. Saudi doctors later indicated that Musaev's actions may have been critical in saving the captain's life.

The article notes that another passenger, Yaniv, was the first to intervene. Musaev, realizing the gravity of the situation, immediately proceeded to the cockpit without waiting for instructions. The co-pilot, an Omani citizen, resisted arrest, requiring the passengers to secure him more firmly until he stopped struggling.

Musaev described the captain lying on the floor with significant head and hand injuries and considerable blood loss. Despite his condition, the captain remained conscious and spoke with passengers, mentioning his age and family. The attacker reportedly continued to strike and insult the captain during the ordeal.

The most terrifying moment for the passengers, according to Musaev, was a sudden and steep descent of the aircraft, during which the plane lost altitude rapidly over approximately 30 seconds, leading them to believe they might perish. After landing, Saudi medics confirmed to Musaev that the captain had survived and was out of danger.

This incident follows a previous report where Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with Yaniv Hiyun, another passenger who participated in preventing the hijacking after the co-pilot attacked the captain with a knife.