Pilot Stabbed on Flydubai Flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv
A Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv was diverted to Saudi Arabia after a pilot stabbed a colleague and attempted to crash the aircraft.
A Flydubai flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after one pilot stabbed a colleague and attempted to crash the plane.
Diversion of the Flight and Development of the Incident
The Flydubai flight, which departed from Dubai International Airport bound for Tel Aviv, was forced to make an emergency landing at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia due to a knife attack in mid-air.
Altercation in the Cockpit
During the flight, a pilot of Omani nationality stabbed his Indian colleague, Captain Smit Machchhar, and, according to a statement by the Israeli Prime Minister, attempted to crash the aircraft.
Intervention of the Passengers
The injured Indian pilot managed to open the cockpit door, whereupon passengers and cabin crew subdued the attacker, preventing a potential disaster.
Sudden Altitude Loss of the Aircraft
According to flight tracking data, the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft experienced a sudden drop of more than 17,000 feet in less than two minutes while over Saudi Arabia and landed safely.
Health Condition of the Injured Pilot
Captain Smit Machchhar, who was injured in the attack, continues to receive treatment at a hospital in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, and his condition is reported to be stable.
Evacuation of Passengers
Another Flydubai evacuation flight was dispatched for the more than 170 passengers on board, and the passengers were transported from Tabuk to Tel Aviv.