Flydubai Suspends Flights to Tel Aviv After Cockpit Attack
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Flydubai suspended flights to Tel Aviv after a cockpit attack.
- The co-pilot allegedly stabbed the captain and tried to crash the plane.
- The flight made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
- A full investigation into the incident is currently underway.
- The UAE described the event as a "terrorist act."
Flydubai announced on Friday that it is suspending all flights to Israel until further notice, following a request from authorities. The airline's CEO stated that the decision was made due to the incident on flight FZ 1073, which originated in Dubai and was en route to Tel Aviv. The flight experienced a distress signal indicating a hijacking attempt after the co-pilot allegedly stabbed the captain and attempted to crash the plane. The aircraft made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
The CEO expressed gratitude to the crew, particularly the captain, Smith Machchhar, and the pilots who landed the plane safely, as well as passengers who assisted the crew during the challenging situation. He confirmed that a full investigation, supported by Flydubai, is underway to determine the facts of the incident. The incident prompted urgent discussions involving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, and senior security officials.
Anwar Gargash, a senior diplomatic advisor to the UAE President, described the incident as a "terrorist act" and praised Captain Machchhar's bravery and responsibility in the face of a serious threat. He urged vigilance against extremism and terrorism.
Captain Machchhar, who sustained stab wounds, spoke with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recounting how he managed to open the cockpit door while on the floor and was attacked by his co-pilot. The captain is currently hospitalized in Saudi Arabia. The incident saw the aircraft plummet over 14,000 feet in one minute, with early images showing a passenger's bloodstained shirt.
Arkia and Israir airlines were scheduled to fly to Dubai to bring back stranded passengers from the UAE after Flydubai's cancellations.
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