Flydubai Co-Pilot Accused of Terrorist Attack on Tel Aviv-Bound Flight

The co-pilot of a Flydubai flight en route to Tel Aviv has been accused of attempting a terrorist attack, according to the United Arab Emirates prosecutor general. The incident, which occurred on September 30, saw the co-pilot allegedly stab the captain and attempt to bring the aircraft down. The flight, FZ1073, was forced to divert to Tabouk, Saudi Arabia, after experiencing a rapid loss of altitude.

Passengers and reserve pilots on board managed to subdue the co-pilot, identified as Hamam Alhamami, and regain control of the aircraft, averting a potential disaster. Alhamami, an Omani national, had previously been a trainee at Royal Air Maroc, though the airline stated he only completed theoretical training. Investigations are ongoing into how Alhamami, who was reportedly flagged as a security risk by Oman Air in 2024, was permitted to fly.