flydubai Suspends Tel Aviv Flights Citing Flight Safety
Following a cockpit incident on a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight, the airline has temporarily halted its flights to Israel.
Following a security incident in the cockpit of a flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, the airline announced that it has temporarily suspended all flights to Israel upon the request of authorities.
Incident During Flight
A security incident occurred on September 30 aboard flydubai flight FZ 1073 departing from Dubai.
It was reported that during the flight, the Omani co-pilot attacked the Indian captain, Smit Machchhar, and a struggle ensued for flight control.
Aircraft Diversion
Making a sudden sharp turn while in Saudi Arabian airspace, the aircraft lost over 16,000 feet of altitude in a short time.
Transmitting emergency and unlawful interference signals, the aircraft changed its route through Jordanian airspace and landed in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Passenger and Crew Status
It was announced that all passengers and crew were safe on the flight, which carried more than 170 passengers—mostly Israelis—and crew members.
Captain pilot Smit Machchhar, after undergoing medical checks, returned to the UAE following medical clearance.
Decision to Suspend Flights
The airline announced that Tel Aviv operations have been temporarily halted at the request of authorities.
An official investigation process conducted by relevant authorities is ongoing, with the full support of flydubai.