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Omani Co-Pilot Handed to UAE After Saudi Probe into Flydubai Mid-Air Attack
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News18•01-10-2026, 16:35
Omani Co-Pilot Handed to UAE After Saudi Probe into Flydubai Mid-Air Attack
- •The Omani co-pilot involved in the Flydubai mid-air crisis will be transferred to UAE authorities after Saudi Arabia completes its initial investigation into the incident.
- •The co-pilot allegedly attacked Captain Smit Machchhar during a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight, forcing an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
- •Passengers and off-duty crew members intervened to restrain the co-pilot, and Captain Machchhar, despite injuries, helped regain control of the aircraft.
- •Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE have launched investigations, with the UAE prosecutor general examining potential terrorist activity or prior planning.
- •Shin Bet chief David Zini had previously warned about insufficient security arrangements on flights from the UAE, leading to disputes with Israeli airlines.
Key Questions Answered
Once Saudi authorities complete their initial investigation, the Omani co-pilot will be handed over to the United Arab Emirates for further investigation into the cockpit incident.
Flight FZ1073 diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, after the Omani co-pilot allegedly attacked Captain Smit Machchhar and caused the aircraft to go into a sharp descent. Passengers and off-duty crew members intervened to restrain the attacker, and the injured captain managed to help secure the cockpit.
No, investigators have not yet established a motive for the co-pilot's actions, and authorities are still examining whether there was any prior planning, terrorist activity, or wider involvement.
