Netanyahu Reveals Omani Pilot Breached Israeli Flight Restrictions

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated in an interview with Fox News on Thursday, October 1, that a Flydubai co-pilot suspected of attempting to crash a passenger plane managed to bypass restrictions on flying to Israel. Netanyahu explained that pilots from countries without diplomatic ties to Israel are not supposed to operate flights to the country, yet an Omani national was able to join the flight crew. "It turned out that he managed to bypass these rules. So, there is a loophole here," the prime minister said, adding that Israel needs to implement pre-flight checks for pilots on such routes. He did not specify how the co-pilot circumvented the regulations. Netanyahu also commented that the suspect had undergone "radical Islamist processing" and that investigations were underway to determine if he had ties to Iran.

Meanwhile, Indian media reported that Smith Machchharu, the pilot injured in the Flydubai incident, was transferred from Saudi Arabia to Dubai for further treatment. After the plane landed in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, Machchharu underwent emergency surgery. His family traveled from Mumbai to Dubai. The co-pilot, an Omani citizen, allegedly attacked the captain with a window-breaking axe. The captain fought back and opened the cockpit door, allowing passengers to intervene. The government of Gujarat, India, announced it would award Machchharu for his bravery.

An Israeli dentist, Dr. Shota Musaev, assisted the injured captain, stating he joined the heroic passengers despite initial hesitation from his wife. Plumber Yaniv Hayon, who helped stabilize the aircraft, expressed surprise at being mentioned by U.S. President Donald Trump. Israeli President Isaac Herzog spoke with four Israeli passengers who aided in subduing the attacker, announcing his intention to recommend them for a medal of civil courage for risking their lives to prevent a disaster. He plans to present their actions to the advisory committee for award nominations. Herzog also recommended Tali Manes, wife of Tzvi Manes, for the award. According to the President's office, she was the first to alert passengers and call for help upon hearing sounds of violence from the cockpit, prompting passengers to rush to the cockpit and help overpower the assailant. After the co-pilot was subdued, Tali Manes called for pilots from the rear of the plane to enter the cockpit and help regain control.