A Flydubai passenger aircraft carrying 174 people was forced into an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after its co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain during a flight from the United Arab Emirates to Israel, triggering a dramatic struggle inside the cockpit.
The Boeing 737 Max 8 was travelling from Dubai toward Tel Aviv on Wednesday when the incident occurred. According to reports from the Associated Press and Reuters, the aircraft suddenly entered a steep descent after the captain was attacked and injured.
The captain eventually managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to enter and help restrain the attacker. The aircraft was subsequently brought under control and diverted to Tabuk in northwestern Saudi Arabia.
Passengers Help Stop the Attack
Passengers described a chaotic situation in which they realised the aircraft was rapidly losing altitude. Several people moved toward the cockpit and helped overpower the alleged attacker while the injured captain and other crew members worked to regain control of the aircraft.
The flight reportedly descended from about 33,000 feet to 17,000 feet in roughly a minute, placing the passengers and crew in an extremely dangerous situation. Aviation experts said the aircraft also suffered significant damage during the severe descent.
The aircraft eventually landed safely at Tabuk’s Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Airport. Emergency personnel were ready to respond after the aircraft declared an emergency.
Captain Hospitalised
The captain, identified in reports as an Indian national, was injured during the confrontation and was taken for medical treatment. Indian diplomatic officials said he was in stable condition.
Three passengers were also treated for minor injuries following the incident, according to the Associated Press.
Passengers later continued their journey to Israel on another flight after the emergency landing.
Investigation Underway
Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have opened an investigation into the incident. Officials are examining what led to the confrontation and whether the attack was planned.
Israeli authorities have also indicated that they will participate in the investigation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the circumstances surrounding the attack would be examined closely, while officials have cautioned against drawing conclusions about the motive before the investigation is completed.
The alleged attacker was arrested in Saudi Arabia following the emergency landing. Reports identified him as an Omani national, although authorities have not yet established a confirmed motive.
Flydubai Suspends Israel Flights
Flydubai has temporarily suspended flights between Dubai and Israel while the investigation continues.
The incident has also raised questions about cockpit security and aviation procedures, particularly because the aircraft was carrying passengers from several countries and was travelling on an international route.
Despite the severity of the emergency, the aircraft reached the ground safely. Investigators will now examine the cockpit confrontation, the aircraft’s rapid descent, the damage sustained during the incident and the actions taken by passengers and crew.
