Stories
Flydubai Co-Pilot Attacks Captain, Terror Link Probed After Emergency Landing
N
News18•02-10-2026, 08:51
Flydubai Co-Pilot Attacks Captain, Terror Link Probed After Emergency Landing
- •A Flydubai co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain and attempted to seize control of a flight bound for Tel Aviv, leading to an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
- •Both pilots were hospitalized in Saudi Arabia before being transferred to Abu Dhabi; the accused co-pilot is identified by Israel as an Omani national.
- •Saudi Arabia's Interior Ministry confirmed the co-pilot assaulted the captain, causing injuries to both men.
- •The suspect was medically cleared and transferred to the UAE with an Emirati security team, where an investigation into potential terrorist activity has been launched.
- •Indian captain Smit Machchhar, injured in the incident, is recovering well in Abu Dhabi after being moved for further treatment.
Key Questions Answered
An Omani co-pilot allegedly assaulted the captain and attempted to seize control of the aircraft, forcing it to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. Both pilots sustained injuries during the incident before being hospitalized and later transferred to Abu Dhabi.
Yes, the UAE has launched an investigation to determine whether the cockpit assault and hijacking attempt involved terrorist activity or intent.
The injured captain has been identified as Indian national Smit Machchhar, who was moved to Abu Dhabi for further treatment and is reported to be recovering well.
