Dubai-Tel Aviv Flight Co-Pilot Attacked Captain With Emergency Axe

A new detail has emerged from the investigation into the unusual incident aboard a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv: the co-pilot used an emergency axe from the cockpit to attack the captain. The axe, typically used for breaking windows or accessing areas in emergencies like fires, became a weapon during flight FZ1073. According to the UAE's Public Prosecutor, the co-pilot assaulted the captain with the axe and attempted to seize control of the aircraft. The plane experienced a sharp dive with 182 people on board before passengers and crew subdued the co-pilot and helped stabilize the aircraft.

This revelation is significant as initial reports suggested the captain was attacked with a knife. UAE authorities confirmed the weapon was the cockpit's emergency axe only after the investigation progressed. The captain, Smith Mcchechar, sustained serious injuries but managed to open the cockpit door, allowing others to enter and overpower the assailant. The aircraft lost significant altitude and sustained rear damage before making an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

The investigation in the UAE is ongoing, with authorities examining the motive, the co-pilot's background, and all collected physical and digital evidence.