An Israeli minister has described an incident on a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv as an "attempted jihadist attack". The flight was diverted to Tabuk airport in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday after a violent altercation between the two pilots. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said in a statement that the incident was a "grave attempt at jihadist terrorism". The flight had taken off at 7:05am and was due to land at Ben-Gurion airport near Tel Aviv at 9:30am.
According to Israeli media, 174 people were on board, including 166 Israelis. The plane emitted a code 7700 via its transponder, indicating a general emergency, about 90 minutes after takeoff. It then emitted a code 7500, used to indicate an unlawful interference in the operation of the aircraft, including a risk of hijacking. Flydubai has called for no speculation while authorities investigate the incident. The airline said its priority is to "ensure the continued safety, health and well-being of all passengers and crew members".
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a video address that one of the pilots had "stabbed the other pilot and apparently tried to crash the plane with everyone on board". Several passengers reported that the co-pilot had stabbed his colleague. Flight data showed the plane suddenly lost about 5,000 meters of altitude in one minute, consistent with a free-fall descent. Netanyahu praised "heroes" who had subdued the co-pilot and regained control of the plane.
Israel Katz said that passengers and a crew member had overpowered the co-pilot. Netanyahu stated that the alleged attacker had been arrested by Saudi authorities and was being questioned. He added that Israel was in constant contact with Saudi authorities and had ordered Israeli security services to prepare for any potential additional threats. The incident has raised concerns about air safety and security.
Flydubai has asked all parties to avoid speculation while the official investigation is underway. The airline said the causes and motivations behind the incident were still unknown. Israeli officials have not provided evidence to support their claim of a jihadist attack. The incident is being investigated by relevant authorities.
The plane was diverted to Tabuk airport in Saudi Arabia, where the co-pilot was taken into custody. Israeli officials have not disclosed the identity of the co-pilot or his motivations. The incident has sparked an international response, with Israeli authorities working closely with Saudi and other regional authorities.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with Israeli and Saudi authorities working together to gather facts and determine the causes of the altercation. Flydubai has emphasized its commitment to passenger safety and security.
Key points
- Israeli minister describes incident on Flydubai flight as "attempted jihadist attack"
- Flight diverted to Saudi Arabia after altercation between pilots
- Israeli authorities working with Saudi and regional authorities to investigate incident
