Israel Probes FlyDubai Co-Pilot's Alleged Intent to Crash Plane

Israeli authorities are investigating the possibility that the co-pilot of a FlyDubai flight involved in an incident on Wednesday intended to seize control of the aircraft over Jordan and crash it into Israel at high speed. This scenario is one of several being examined by security services, though it has not yet been confirmed.

According to Channel 12, Shin Bet Director David Zini had been warning for months about perceived insufficient security measures on flights originating from the United Arab Emirates. The report indicates a significant dispute occurred between the Shin Bet and Israeli airlines in the weeks prior to the incident. The agency had previously banned a route to the UAE due to security concerns and demanded enhanced protection measures. These requirements, the report suggests, might have helped prevent such an attack. However, these measures pertained to Israeli airlines, whose security falls under the Shin Bet's purview, while the prevention of threats against foreign carriers is reportedly the responsibility of the Mossad.

Available intelligence had indicated a sharp increase in alerts regarding potential attacks, with concerns primarily focused on missile fire or ground assaults on airports. The possibility of an aircraft hijacking by a crew member had not been officially discussed. In July, the Shin Bet had informed Israeli airlines that their flights to Dubai would be prohibited until the end of October, amid regional tensions and fears of further escalation with Iran.

Following the incident, FlyDubai announced on Wednesday evening the suspension of its flights to Israel for six days. El Al and Arkia, meanwhile, plan to resume their routes in November with strengthened security protocols.