Thai Passenger Recounts "Terror Flight" Where Passengers Subdued Attacking Co-Pilot

A Thai passenger on a Flydubai flight to Israel described harrowing moments when the co-pilot, identified as Omani, attacked the Indian captain in an apparent attempt to crash the plane into Ben Gurion Airport. Wirawat Rogpan, a Thai national working in Israel, shared videos and recounted his fear for his life during the incident. He described the plane making two sudden, steep dives, likening the experience to a roller coaster, which caused unsecured passengers to float in the air, leading to screams and crying.

Rogpan praised the quick actions of Israeli passengers who intervened to subdue the co-pilot, preventing a potential catastrophe. He noted that passengers began calling out for anyone with a medical or security background to assist the captain, who was bleeding. The situation was brought under control within about 10 minutes, with the co-pilot incapacitated and restrained.

Despite the terrifying ordeal, Rogpan expressed deep gratitude for the kindness and mutual support shown by the Israeli passengers. He stated they repeatedly checked on him, recognizing him as a foreigner and the only Thai person on board, and made him feel cared for. He plans to seek medical and legal advice for compensation from the airline.

Rogpan also voiced disappointment and hurt over conspiracy theories circulating in Thailand suggesting the incident was staged. He emphasized that those on board experienced the event firsthand and that such claims are baseless and damaging.

Reports indicate the co-pilot had previously been fired from an Omani airline for radical behavior and had planned the attack for an earlier date, postponing it only upon discovering a friend was on board. His primary objective was reportedly to neutralize the captain, seize control of the aircraft, and crash it into the passenger terminal.