Israel Investigates Flydubai Hijacking Attempt After Co-Pilot Accused of Sabotaging Aircraft
Israeli authorities have launched an investigation into how a Flydubai co-pilot, reportedly an Omani national, was cleared to operate a flight to Tel Aviv despite allegations of extremist religious behaviour. The incident involved the co-pilot allegedly attacking the aircraft’s pilot and attempting to interfere with its systems, raising serious concerns about aviation security and crew screening procedures.
According to reports shared by Israeli journalist and news anchor Yosef Yisrael on Channel 16, a fellow pilot who had worked with the accused described him as displaying unusual behaviour, particularly concerning his religious practices. The colleague, who requested anonymity, reportedly said that the co-pilot frequently prayed and refused to shake hands with women, behaviour that he considered unusual within the Flydubai working environment. These accounts have prompted further questions about whether any warning signs were overlooked during the airline's recruitment or screening process.
The colleague also reportedly expressed regret over the incident, questioning how someone accused of such actions was allowed to operate a flight to Israel. He reportedly described the situation as a serious failure, given the potential danger faced by everyone aboard the aircraft. The circumstances surrounding the crew member's selection and clearance are now receiving particular attention from Israeli authorities.
The aircraft's pilot, identified in reports as Mr Machchhar, was praised for his actions during the emergency. While the plane was flying over Saudi Arabian airspace, the co-pilot allegedly attacked him and attempted to sabotage the aircraft's systems. The pilot managed to resist the attack and prevent the situation from escalating further, helping protect the 174 passengers and other crew members on board.
During the incident, the aircraft briefly transmitted the emergency transponder code 7500, which indicates unlawful interference or a possible hijacking. The development raised fears of a potential large-scale aviation disaster, with some officials drawing comparisons to the September 11 attacks. Passengers also reportedly helped restrain the alleged attacker, preventing the situation from deteriorating further.
Following the incident, Israel began examining how the alleged attacker obtained clearance to operate a flight to Tel Aviv, particularly given the sensitive aviation and security arrangements surrounding international flights into the country. Flydubai has also grounded its flights to and from Israel while conducting its own investigation. The incident has renewed attention on airline crew verification, cockpit security and the importance of effective safeguards against threats to civilian aviation.
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