The UAE is investigating whether a cockpit altercation on a Flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv was linked to terrorism. Attorney‑General Hamad Saif al Shamsi ordered an inquiry to determine if the incident was premeditated and any terrorist connection, with Israel also involved in the probe. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there was no prior warning and it was too early to assess Iranian involvement.
Israeli security minister Itamar Ben‑Gvir called for extradition of the attacking co‑pilot, an Omani national, urging the ultimate punishment. The flight, from Dubai to Tel Aviv, was diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, after the co‑pilot stabbed the pilot, causing the plane to plunge 18,000 feet in 90 seconds. Passengers and crew subdued the attacker and landed safely.
Flydubai suspended its Dubai‑Israel services pending the investigation, while other carriers continued limited flights into Tel Aviv. The incident raises questions about security checks for flights to Israel, which has a history of aviation attacks.
Source: Financial Times Companies · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing