The prosecutor general of the United Arab Emirates, Hamad Saïf Al Chamsi, has disclosed that the copilot of Flydubai flight FZ1073 attempted to commit a terrorist act on board the aircraft. The incident occurred on a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv on October 2, 2026, which was subsequently diverted to Tabouk, Saudi Arabia. Al Chamsi stated that the copilot began executing his plan by attacking the captain with a rescue axe inside the cockpit and attempting to take control of the aircraft's controls.
According to the UAE prosecutor general, an investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances and motives behind the incident, as well as any potential links. Technical expertise and analysis of material and digital evidence are also being conducted. Al Chamsi assured that the final results will be announced once all necessary procedures are completed. The incident involved 174 people on board, and the flight was operated by a crew that intervened to secure the aircraft.
Flydubai, a Dubai-based airline, has suspended its flights to and from Israel following the incident. The airline reported that an altercation occurred in the cockpit during the flight, prompting the crew to intervene and secure the aircraft. The safety of passengers and crew was ensured, and the aircraft landed safely in Tabouk.
The incident has raised concerns about aviation security, and authorities are working to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. The UAE prosecutor general's office is working closely with relevant authorities to gather evidence and determine the motives behind the copilot's actions.
The copilot's actions have been described as an attempt to take control of the aircraft, and the incident is being treated as a serious security breach. The investigation is focused on determining whether the copilot acted alone or if there were any external factors involved.
Flydubai's decision to suspend flights to and from Israel is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. The airline will review its security protocols and procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The incident highlights the importance of robust security measures in the aviation industry. Authorities and airlines must work together to ensure the safety of passengers and crew, and to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Key points
- The copilot of Flydubai flight FZ1073 attempted to commit a terrorist act by attacking the captain and trying to take control of the aircraft.
- An investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances and motives behind the incident.
- Flydubai has suspended its flights to and from Israel as a precautionary measure.
