Flydubai Co-Pilot Allegedly Attempts Terrorist Attack Mid-Flight

The United Arab Emirates prosecutor general has stated that an attempted “terrorist attack” occurred aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073, when the co-pilot allegedly used a crash axe during the incident. According to reports from a state news agency on Saturday, the co-pilot also attempted to seize control of the aircraft which was en route to Israel. The flight, carrying 182 passengers, was saved from a potential disaster due to the quick actions of crew members and fellow passengers who intervened to subdue the co-pilot and stabilise the aircraft.

Typically, a crash axe is stored in the cockpit for emergency situations. It has now been revealed that the co-pilot had previously been barred from flying by Oman due to concerns over extremist ideologies, as reported by the Wall Street Journal. Despite these red flags, he managed to secure a position at Flydubai, raising questions about the vetting process during his hiring.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with significant focus on how the co-pilot was allowed to operate within the cockpit. Notably, Oman does not have formal diplomatic relations with Israel, and Israeli officials maintain agreements that prevent pilots from such nations from entering Israeli airspace.

An official source indicated that the co-pilot had previously worked for Oman’s national airline before being reassigned to an administrative role after being flagged for extremist views. Security agencies from four regional nations, along with assistance from US and other western authorities, are collaborating to assess the co-pilot’s motives.

Senior UAE diplomatic advisor Anwar Gargash characterised the situation as a “dangerous terrorist act,” highlighting the pressure on the UAE government to address security concerns around extremist activities, especially given its past reputation for efficient counter-terrorism efforts.

The captain of the flight reportedly sustained severe injuries during the attack but used his last strength to unlock the cockpit door, allowing others to intervene. The plane made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia, and both the captain and co-pilot were subsequently transported to the UAE, which is now overseeing the investigation into the incident. Participation in the investigation has been confirmed from multiple nations, including Israel.

As further details emerge, concerns regarding the co-pilot's background and the circumstances surrounding his employment at Flydubai are expected to be scrutinised thoroughly in the coming days.