A dramatic incident unfolded on a FlyDubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv on October 1, 2026, when the co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain, leading to a struggle for control of the aircraft and a subsequent emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. The plane, carrying 174 passengers, including 166 Israelis, made a sudden descent, losing approximately 17,000 feet in just one minute, according to Flightradar24. Passengers rushed to the cockpit, helping to subdue the co-pilot and regain control of the aircraft.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the Indian pilot, identified as Smit Machchhar, for his "extraordinary bravery" in fighting back against the co-pilot despite being injured. Netanyahu described the incident as an attempted terrorist attack aimed at damaging Israel's relationship with one of its key Middle Eastern partners. The Israeli Foreign Ministry also labeled the incident as a "terrorist attack."
According to Netanyahu, the co-pilot stabbed the captain with a sharp object in an attempt to crash the plane. However, Machchhar, with the help of passengers, including an Israeli plumber, managed to regain control of the aircraft. The plumber reportedly entered the cockpit, saw the attacker, and grabbed him from behind, pulling him back before he could reach the captain's seat.
The incident has raised concerns about the motive behind the co-pilot's actions, with Netanyahu stating that it is unclear whether it was linked to Iran or another party. The Indian Embassy confirmed that Machchhar is being treated in a Saudi hospital, while the airport operator reported that the co-pilot was also injured.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Machchhar as a hero, saying he showed "immense courage and unwavering determination" in protecting the lives of others. Modi added that Machchhar's bravery saved hundreds of lives and prevented a major tragedy. Israel's transportation ministry also praised the passengers and crew for their quick response.
Passengers on board described the terrifying experience, with one, Miryam Shira Ohayon, saying the plane was "virtually out of control" when the incident occurred. Another passenger, Almog Italie, reported that it felt like they were going through severe turbulence before a scuffle broke out near the cockpit. Chaim Nazarovitz, also a passenger, described the ordeal as "terrifyingly frightening."
FlyDubai has suspended flights to Israel pending an investigation into the incident. The airline confirmed that all passengers were safely transported to Tel Aviv on another flight. The incident has sparked an investigation, with authorities working to determine the cause and motive behind the co-pilot's actions.
Key points
- The incident occurred on a FlyDubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv on October 1, 2026.
- The co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain, leading to a struggle for control of the aircraft and an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
- The incident is being investigated as a possible terrorist attack, with authorities working to determine the motive behind the co-pilot's actions.
