In a dramatic incident that could have ended in tragedy, a flydubai co‑pilot tried to take control of flight FZ1073 by attacking the captain with a crash axe. The event unfolded on Wednesday as the aircraft was cruising from the United Arab Emirates toward Israel, carrying more than 170 passengers and crew members.
Details of the attack
UAE Prosecutor General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi described the act as an attempted “terrorist” attack. According to a source with direct knowledge, the co‑pilot was identified as Hammam al‑Hammami, an Omani national, though Emirati authorities have not confirmed his identity publicly.
During the flight, the co‑pilot entered the cockpit and struck the pilot with a crash axe – a tool normally kept on board for emergency situations such as a forced landing. The assault caused the aircraft to lose altitude rapidly, dropping about 16,625 feet in just over 30 seconds while over Saudi airspace.
Passengers and crew intervene
Passengers and crew members quickly responded, subduing the co‑pilot before he could gain control of the plane. A reserve flydubai pilot who was traveling on the flight took over the controls and safely guided the aircraft to an emergency landing at Tabuk Airport in northwestern Saudi Arabia. Saudi authorities detained the suspect upon arrival.
International cooperation in the investigation
The UAE has launched an investigation, examining physical and digital evidence to determine the motives and any possible connections. Israeli officials have pledged to cooperate, with an Israeli government representative confirming that Israeli investigators will work alongside Emirati authorities.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the incident will be thoroughly examined to see if the co‑pilot acted under external direction, warning that anyone involved would face a “heavy price.” He also noted that the co‑pilot appeared to have undergone radical Islamist indoctrination and seemed suicidal, though a clear motive has not yet been established.
Flight safety and response
Flydubai stated that the circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation and that it could not comment further at this time. The airline emphasized that the quick actions of passengers and crew prevented a potential disaster.
Authorities continue to review flight‑tracking data, cockpit recordings, and other evidence to piece together the full sequence of events. The incident underscores the importance of vigilant security measures and the bravery of airline personnel and passengers who act decisively in emergencies.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
