A major aviation security investigation is underway after an Omani co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain of a Flydubai passenger aircraft and attempted to take control of the Israel-bound jet. The incident has raised concerns about how the suspect, previously identified as a security risk, gained access to a commercial aircraft cockpit. The suspect had been flagged while training as a co-pilot with Oman Air in 2024 after allegedly being found in possession of extremist materials.
The Omani co-pilot was reportedly grounded from flying for one year after being found with extremist materials. However, rather than being removed entirely from the airline, he was allowed to continue working in an administrative capacity. The circumstances surrounding his departure from Oman Air and subsequent employment with Flydubai have become a central part of the investigation. Authorities are trying to determine what security checks were carried out before he was permitted to fly again.
The suspect joined Flydubai and was cleared to serve as first officer on a flight bound for Israel. Investigators are examining the suspect's employment history, security assessments, aviation records, and the screening procedures undertaken before his appointment. They are also expected to examine whether information about his previous suspension was communicated to relevant aviation authorities and whether adequate background checks were conducted when he moved between airlines.
The incident occurred on a Flydubai flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. According to accounts from officials and passengers, the co-pilot allegedly attacked Captain Smit Machchhar inside the cockpit before the aircraft entered a rapid descent. The captain fought back and was able to open the cockpit door, prompting passengers and crew members to rush forward. One passenger, Israeli plumber Yaniv Hayoun, said he helped pull back on the aircraft's controls to stabilize the plane.
A third pilot who was traveling in the passenger cabin also intervened and eventually helped take control of the aircraft. One passenger who rushed towards the cockpit, Dr. Shota Musaev, said the suspect was eventually restrained outside the cockpit. Musaev said the man, who told him he was from Oman, repeatedly asked to be killed, saying, "Kill me please." The suspect has been cooperating with authorities and indicated that he intended to crash the aircraft in Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the suspect had undergone what he described as "Islamist radicalization." Netanyahu alleged that the suspect intended to crash the aircraft with all passengers aboard, adding that authorities were investigating whether he had been sent by someone else. The Israeli Prime Minister also praised Hayoun and the other passengers who intervened during the attack, comparing the potential consequences to the September 11, 2001 attacks in the United States.
Flydubai has temporarily suspended its operations to Tel Aviv following the incident. The airline said a full official investigation was underway and that it was fully supporting the authorities. The suspect has been transferred to the United Arab Emirates, where authorities are investigating his alleged motive, possible radicalization, and whether anyone else was involved in the incident.
Key points
- The Omani co-pilot was previously flagged as a security risk after being found with extremist materials.
- The suspect was grounded from flying for one year but later joined Flydubai and was cleared to serve as first officer on a flight bound for Israel.
- Authorities are investigating whether the suspect was sent by someone else and are examining his employment history and security assessments.
