The United Arab Emirates says a Flydubai co-pilot attacked the captain during a flight to Israel. The incident nearly caused the aircraft to crash. The incident happened aboard Flydubai Flight 1073 on September 30. The Boeing 737 was flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv. More than 170 passengers were on board. According to UAE authorities, the co-pilot used an emergency crash ax during the attack. The assault left the captain injured and caused the aircraft to enter a dangerous descent.
Flight enters a rapid descent
The aircraft reportedly dropped more than 16,000 feet in about 30 seconds. The sudden descent created a major emergency for everyone aboard. The captain managed to open the cockpit door during the struggle. Passengers and other crew members then helped stop the co-pilot. Two off-duty pilots were also among those who helped restore control. The aircraft later made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. No passengers were killed in the incident. Both pilots were taken for medical treatment after the emergency landing.
The UAE authorities have described the incident as an attempted terrorist act. Investigators are still examining the co-pilot’s motives and background.
Questions over pilot screening
The incident has also raised questions about aviation security and pilot vetting. The Wall Street Journal reported that the co-pilot had previously worked for Oman Air. Authorities there had concerns about his online activity and alleged extremist interests. Oman had reportedly stopped him from flying and placed him in a different role. He also underwent a deradicalization program, according to people familiar with the matter. Flydubai hired him in February 2026. The airline reportedly conducted a criminal background check during the hiring process. However, it did not contact Oman for additional vetting, according to the WSJ report. He was later assigned to the Tel Aviv route. That decision is now receiving scrutiny from investigators and security officials.
Investigation continues
Authorities in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Israel are examining the incident. Investigators are also looking into the co-pilot’s previous employment and activities. The case has increased attention on how airlines screen pilots before assigning them to sensitive international routes. The investigation will also examine whether authorities missed earlier warning signs. Officials are expected to review the hiring and security procedures surrounding the flight. The report has therefore raised wider concerns about cockpit security. It has also renewed questions about how airlines share security information.
The aircraft ultimately reached safety after the emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. Investigators are now working to establish the full sequence of events and determine whether others were involved. The incident remains under investigation. Authorities have not yet released a final account of the co-pilot’s motive.
Israel-bound FlyDubai flight lands in Saudi Arabia after brawl between pilots as authorities investigate the cockpit incident.