FLYDUBAI CO-PILOT ALLEGEDLY PLANNED AIRBORNE ATTACK BEFORE JOINING AIRLINE

October 5, 2026

DUBAI — The Flydubai co-pilot accused of attacking the captain during a flight bound for Israel had allegedly planned the operation before joining the airline, according to investigators familiar with the case.

The co-pilot is alleged to have told UAE interrogators that he had deliberately sought employment with an airline operating flights to Tel Aviv. Investigators are examining whether his recruitment and subsequent assignment to the route were part of a longer-term plan.

The incident unfolded aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv when the co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain inside the cockpit and attempted to seize control of the aircraft. The aircraft entered a dangerous descent before passengers and crew intervened.

The captain managed to open the cockpit door despite being injured, allowing passengers to enter and overpower the alleged attacker. A reserve pilot travelling on the aircraft subsequently took control and diverted the plane to Saudi Arabia, where the co-pilot was detained before being transferred to the United Arab Emirates.

Investigators are also examining claims that the co-pilot had previously considered carrying out a similar attack on another flight to Tel Aviv earlier in the year. The earlier plan was reportedly abandoned, although the reasons remain under investigation.

The revelations have intensified questions over aviation security and the screening of flight crew, particularly after reports that the co-pilot had previously faced restrictions on flying in Oman. Authorities in several countries are now examining his background, recruitment and movements as they seek to determine how the alleged plot developed and whether any other individuals were involved.

The investigation remains ongoing, with the incident raising serious concerns about the ability of aviation-security systems to identify potential threats before they reach the cockpit.