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UAE Investigates flydubai Flight Incident After Co-Pilot Allegedly Attacks Pilot Mid-Flight
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News18•01-10-2026, 16:45
UAE Investigates flydubai Flight Incident After Co-Pilot Allegedly Attacks Pilot Mid-Flight
- •The UAE has launched an investigation into an incident aboard flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv, which was forced to divert and land in Saudi Arabia.
- •Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar was stabbed and seriously injured by his co-pilot, who allegedly attempted to crash the aircraft carrying 174 passengers.
- •UAE Attorney-General Counsellor Hamad Al Shamsi ordered a team to investigate the incident, including potential links to terrorist activity or prior planning.
- •The UAE's judicial authorities have jurisdiction over the investigation as the aircraft is registered in the UAE, meaning UAE law applies to crimes committed on board.
- •The co-pilot, believed to be an Omani national, was arrested and is being questioned by Saudi authorities, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating it's too early to determine motives.
Key Questions Answered
A flydubai flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv was forced to divert and make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after an in-flight altercation occurred in the cockpit. Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar was stabbed and seriously injured while fighting off his co-pilot, who allegedly attempted to crash the aircraft.
UAE judicial authorities hold jurisdiction over the investigation because the aircraft is registered in the UAE, flies its flag, and UAE law applies to crimes committed on board regardless of whether they occur outside UAE territory.
The co-pilot, who is believed to be an Omani national, was arrested after the plane landed safely at Tabuk Airport and is currently being questioned by authorities.
