A Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday after the co-pilot allegedly stabbed the captain and attempted to take control of the aircraft.
The incident occurred aboard Flight FZ1073, which was carrying more than 170 passengers, mostly Israelis, according to Israeli officials and reports from passengers. The aircraft entered a rapid descent after the confrontation before other crew members and passengers intervened.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said one pilot attacked the other with a knife and apparently attempted to crash the aircraft. Passengers, assisted by crew members, managed to overpower the attacker and regain control of the cockpit.
The aircraft was subsequently diverted to Tabuk in northwestern Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. Both pilots were injured and taken to hospital, while passengers were reported to have escaped unharmed.
Saudi authorities arrested the alleged attacker after the aircraft landed. An Israeli official identified him as an Omani national, although his identity and the motive behind the attack had not been officially established at the time of reporting. Flydubai said the circumstances surrounding the incident remained unclear and cautioned against premature speculation.
The confrontation reportedly caused panic among passengers as the aircraft lost altitude. Some passengers and members of the security personnel on board entered the cockpit and restrained the attacker, allowing another set of pilots to take control of the aircraft.
Israeli authorities have described the incident as a serious security event and announced plans for a joint investigation with defence authorities. The incident also prompted Israeli officials to review security arrangements for flights arriving in the country.
Saudi authorities are expected to question the detained suspect as investigators work to establish what led to the attack and whether anyone else was involved.
Flydubai said its crew followed established procedures during the incident and praised their actions in ensuring the safe landing of the aircraft.
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