Dubai-Tel Aviv Flight Makes Emergency Landing Following Fight Between Pilots

A flydubai flight traveling from Dubai to Ben Gurion Airport made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, following a violent fight between pilots in the cockpit and a loss of altitude. Due to the extraordinary situation, Israel scrambled fighter jets, and it was announced that all passengers on the plane were safe.

Emergency Signal and Landing

A Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft operating the Dubai to Tel Aviv flight began broadcasting emergency codes in the air shortly after takeoff. The aircraft first transmitted the general emergency code 7700, followed by code 7500 indicating a possible aircraft hijacking.

Violent Fight in the Cockpit

According to information based on security officials, the incident stemmed from a severe disagreement between the two pilots. It was reported that during the fight in the cockpit, the pilots activated the hijacking signal and one pilot injured the other with a knife.

Intervention by Passengers and Crew

The aggressive pilot was neutralized through the joint intervention of several Israeli citizens on board and the cabin crew. Passengers stated that after the cockpit door was opened, they saw blood stains and brought the scuffle to an end by intervening.

Altitude Loss and Israel's Response

The aircraft lost approximately 17,000 feet of altitude in a short span of two minutes. Following the incident, Israel scrambled fighter jets out of concern that the aircraft carrying its citizens might be hijacked, and the Prime Minister's Office announced that the crisis was under control.