Co-pilot in Flydubai flight attack attempt believed to have acted alone
The co-pilot who attacked the captain and tried to take control of a Flydubai flight bound for Israel is reported to have acted alone in an isolated incident.
Initial findings from the investigation into the Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv indicate that the co-pilot who attacked the captain and attempted to seize control of the aircraft acted alone without being part of a broader organization.
Initial Findings and Investigation Process
Authorities stated that the investigation into the attempted attack on the flight to Israel is still in its early stages and examinations are ongoing.
Former Shin Bet official Shalom Ben Hanan reported that it is assessed the perpetrator carried out a lone-actor attack inspired by online content.
Details of the Incident Aboard the Aircraft
It was disclosed that the co-pilot attacked the captain with an axe on the flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, which was carrying 174 passengers, the majority of whom were Israeli.
A potential catastrophe was averted thanks to cabin crew and passengers entering the cockpit to neutralize the attacker.
Suspect's Identity and Official Statements
While authorities have not officially released the suspect's identity, multiple sources identified the suspect as Omani national Hamam al-Hammami.
UAE Attorney General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi announced that efforts are ongoing to determine the circumstances, motivations, and possible connections surrounding the incident.
Captain Pilot's Account
Receiving treatment at a hospital in Abu Dhabi, Indian national captain pilot Smit Machchhar stated that he was severely injured in the attack.
Machchhar said that when he felt the aircraft descending, he managed to open the cockpit door, which allowed the passengers and crew to get inside.