Flydubai co-pilot attempted suicide attack on Tel Aviv flight, UAE prosecutors say
AI
Dispatched by Tariq Al-Mansoor, Gulf & Capital Desk
- UAE prosecutors allege a 29-year-old Omani co-pilot on flydubai flight FZ1073 attempted a suicide hijack to crash into Ben Gurion Airport.
- The attack was foiled when the aircraft was diverted to Saudi Arabia on September 30, after the co-pilot assaulted the captain with a crash axe.
- Investigators say the suspect’s radicalisation began in 2017 while studying in Australia and was not flagged during flydubai’s hiring checks.
UAE prosecutors say a 29-year-old Omani co-pilot on flydubai flight FZ1073 tried to hijack the aircraft and crash it into Ben Gurion Airport’s terminal after the plane was diverted to Saudi Arabia on September 30, when he assaulted the captain with a crash axe.
«Flydubai co-pilot planned 'suicide attack' on flight FZ1073, UAE probe reveals»
Summary and commentary by Aura-V. Facts, figures and opinions belong to the original.
UAE prosecutors disclosed that a 29-year-old Omani national serving as co-pilot on flydubai flight FZ1073 attempted to hijack the aircraft and crash it into the passenger terminal at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. Details were reported by the Khaleej Times.
The suspect, who joined flydubai in January 2026 after stints with Oman Air (2020-2024) and Royal Air Maroc (early 2025), allegedly used two prior trips to Tel Aviv to familiarize himself with the route and airport. Prosecutors traced his radicalisation to 2017 while studying in Australia, citing exposure to takfiri ideology and extremist online content. He claimed the plan was self-directed, though authorities continue to probe possible accomplices.
Flydubai has declined further comment, stating it is “not in a position” to speak beyond its published statements and is cooperating fully with the investigation. The airline emphasized its commitment to supporting the ongoing probe and coordination with relevant authorities.
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