Near Disaster Averted on Flydubai Flight After Cockpit Struggle

A dramatic incident on a Flydubai flight, involving a struggle in the cockpit and a steep dive, was narrowly averted from becoming a catastrophe, according to retired Lieutenant Colonel Alon Peretz, a former pilot of the aircraft type. Peretz, speaking to N12, emphasized that his analysis is professional speculation based on available information and his experience, with official flight data and witness accounts expected to provide definitive answers.

Peretz theorizes the dive may have occurred during the cockpit struggle, possibly triggered by a movement of the controls that disengaged the autopilot. He explained that while the autopilot is designed to maintain flight, moving the controls beyond a slight adjustment on this aircraft type can cause it to disconnect. "My hypothesis is that this is what happened. In such a struggle, you might grab the controls or push them accidentally, and the action of pushing the controls lowers the nose of the aircraft and puts it into a dive," Peretz stated.

The aircraft plummeted approximately 4,000 meters in about 40 seconds, a descent Peretz described as "very, very extreme." This rapid dive could have caused negative G-forces, potentially lifting occupants from their seats. Peretz suggested this sudden disorientation might have unexpectedly benefited the pilot fighting for control, potentially causing the aggressor to lose their advantage or need to brace themselves, allowing the other pilot to act.

The recovery from the dive also presented significant risks. Exceeding safe speeds or pulling up too sharply could have structurally damaged the aircraft. "An overly aggressive attempt to raise the nose of the aircraft could really break the plane," Peretz cautioned, advising a careful stabilization rather than a forceful pull. He also noted that damage to the tail could be a result of the high speed during the dive or the subsequent evasive maneuver.

Peretz concluded that the situation was exceptionally close to disaster, stating that at the rate of descent, the plane would have crashed within another 40 seconds. He highlighted the role of luck, noting that multiple factors had to align perfectly for a safe outcome, including the pilot's ability to overcome the aggressor, open the door, and the presence of other crew members to assist. "All the stars aligned here, and overall it ended okay," he remarked.