The incident occurred on Wednesday aboard Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv, carrying 182 people. The aircraft made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, after the captain was injured and passengers and crew intervened. The captain, Smit Machchhar, reportedly managed to open the cockpit door, allowing others to subdue the co-pilot and help stabilise the aircraft.
The suspect has been identified by officials as Omani national Hamam al-Hammami. Reports say he had previously been barred from flying in Oman amid concerns about extremist views, although investigations into his background, motive and possible connections remain ongoing.
Your reaction
Story guide
Understand this story
Summary
The UAE says a Flydubai co-pilot attacked the captain with a cockpit crash axe and attempted to take control of an Israel-bound flight carrying 182 people. The United Arab Emirates says the co-pilot of a Flydubai flight bound for Israel attacked the captain with a crash axe and attempted to take control of the aircraft. UAE Attorney General...
Key takeaways
- The UAE says a Flydubai co-pilot attacked the captain with a cockpit crash axe and attempted to take control of an Israel-bound flight carrying 182 people.
- The United Arab Emirates says the co-pilot of a Flydubai flight bound for Israel attacked the captain with a crash axe and attempted to take control of the aircraft.
- UAE Attorney General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi described the incident as an attempted terrorist attack and said investigations were continuing into the circumstances and motive.The incident occurred on Wednesday aboard Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv, carrying 182 people.
Article FAQ
What is this story about?
The UAE says a Flydubai co-pilot attacked the captain with a cockpit crash axe and attempted to take control of an Israel-bound flight carrying 182 people. The United Arab Emirates says the co-pilot of a Flydubai flight bound for Israel attacked the captain with a crash axe and attempted to take control of the aircraft. UAE Attorney General...
Who published this story?
Glow 99.1 FM published this story with GlowRy Atuah listed as author.
When was it published?
October 3, 2026
