Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said a pilot on a Flydubai flight stabbed his co‑pilot and attempted to sabotage the aircraft. The assault caused the plane to lose altitude rapidly, dropping more than 17,000 feet in under two minutes.

Passengers intervene and secure the cockpit

Passengers described the cabin as chaotic, with children crying and many fearing they would die. Several passengers, including Yaniv Hayoun, charged into the cockpit and placed the attacker in a chokehold. Dr. Shota Musaev, a dentist on board, helped restrain the assailant with headphone cords and zip ties and tended to the wounded pilot.

Reserve pilots help bring the aircraft down

Reserve pilots traveling as passengers, identified as Smit Machchhar from India, fought back after being stabbed and managed to regain control of the aircraft. Their actions, along with the crew’s efforts, allowed the plane to be diverted and land safely at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia at 9:54 a.m. local time.

Authorities respond

The suspected attacker was detained by Saudi authorities and is being questioned. Israeli officials praised the bravery of the passengers and crew, calling the incident a “great miracle.” The captain and co‑pilot were taken to a hospital for treatment.

Investigation underway

Israeli agencies, including Shin Bet, Mossad and the Ministry of Transportation, are investigating the motive and background of the attacker, who is believed to be an Omani national. Saudi investigators will also examine the flight data and cockpit voice recorders.

Four American citizens with Israeli nationality were among the passengers. After landing, the survivors were escorted to a reception area at Ben Gurion Airport, where families awaited their return.

Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.