Failures in Flight Security Preceded Dubai Air Hijacking Attempt

Concerns about deficiencies in the security system for foreign flights were known at the Ministry of Transport even before a recent hijacking attempt on a Flydubai flight. Several reports have raised questions about the gap between prior warnings and actual procedures.

A classified internal discussion on June 4, 2023, involving the National Security Council, Mossad, Shin Bet, and the Ministry of Transport, revealed that the ministry struggled to obtain necessary intelligence for its responsibility over foreign flight security. The ministry stated at the time that while it issues security directives for departure airports, it requires knowledge of threats to fulfill its role, a need that was not being met. The discussion concluded with Mossad agreeing to provide more information to the ministry.

Further reports highlighted potential conflicts of interest among key personnel. Avri Cohen, who headed the Ministry of Transport's Security Department responsible for vetting foreign flights, reportedly also worked as a security consultant for Israeli airlines abroad for separate compensation. His department assumed responsibility for foreign flights in 2021, but significant improvements were reportedly stalled due to staffing and capability shortages.

Another report focused on Dvir Rubinstein, the Aviation Security Manager at the Ministry of Transport, who oversees foreign airlines. He allegedly received payments for consulting and training from Flydubai and Emirates. Rubinstein, who has worked as a freelancer for 19 years and established a private consulting firm for foreign airlines, had previously lectured on aviation security lessons from the 9/11 attacks, noting the possibility of hijacking without weapons or explosives and emphasizing the importance of passenger and crew vetting.

Following the recent hijacking attempt, these revelations underscore pre-existing issues within the system, including intelligence gaps, oversight capabilities, and potential conflicts of interest among officials responsible for foreign flight security.