International investigators have launched a formal inquiry into a mid-air incident involving a flydubai flight where an Omani co-pilot allegedly stabbed his captain. The attack, which occurred approximately two-and-a-half hours after the aircraft departed from Dubai, forced an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. The motive, background, and potential affiliations of the attacker remain unknown, with officials stating that all possibilities, ranging from terrorism to mental health issues, are being explored.
The flight, carrying more than 170 passengers, faced a critical situation when the plane began to plummet following the altercation. Israeli passengers on board intervened, restraining the co-pilot while a reserve crew took control and safely landed the aircraft in Saudi Arabia. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the passengers for their actions, announcing that four individuals will receive a “heroism” award. Among the passengers, Yaniv Hayoun, a plumber, described to the Prime Minister how he heard screaming and felt a change in air pressure before forcing his way into the cockpit to subdue the attacker.
The wounded captain, identified as Indian national Smit Machchhar, was able to signal for help and open the cockpit door, allowing for the passenger intervention. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Benjamin Netanyahu have both publicly commended Captain Machchhar for his bravery. The captain is currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Tabuk. India’s ambassador to the UAE has met with the captain's family to provide updates on his recovery.
Saudi investigators, who initially detained the co-pilot upon the plane's arrival, are now collaborating with counterparts from the UAE, the US, Oman, and Israel. While Israeli officials, including Defence Minister Israel Katz and UN Ambassador Danny Danon, have characterized the event as a “terror attack,” investigators have not yet established a formal link to any specific organization or state. President Donald Trump, who spoke with Netanyahu regarding the incident, suggested the attacker could be a “terrorist or perhaps a whack job.”
Netanyahu stated it is “too early to say” whether Iran had any involvement, adding that the government intends to reach the “root of this attacker” and determine if there were accomplices. Meanwhile, the UAE has confirmed it is conducting its own investigation into the incident. As a result of the ongoing probes, flydubai has suspended all flights to and from Israel and has called on all parties to avoid speculation while authorities gather evidence.
