How Flydubai Co-Pilot Attacked Captain With Axe, Tried To Take Over Plane - UAE Prosecutor
UAE authorities are investigating an incident where a Flydubai co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain with an axe during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The flight was safely diverted to Saudi Arabia, and the co-pilot, identified as an Omani national, is in custody.
Why it matters
This incident raises critical questions regarding aviation security protocols and the vetting processes for airline personnel.
The incident occurred aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, according to the UAE Attorney-General, Dr Hamad Saif Al Shamsi.
The United Arab Emirates has said the co-pilot of a Flydubai passenger aircraft attempted to carry out what authorities described as a “terrorist attack” after allegedly attacking the captain with an axe during a flight to Israel.
Al Shamsi said investigations revealed that the co-pilot attacked the captain inside the cockpit with a crash axe before attempting to take control of the aircraft.
He said the authorities had launched investigations into the incident, including efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged attack, the motive behind it and whether the suspect had any links to other individuals or organisations.
The Attorney-General said technical examinations and analysis of physical and digital evidence were also being conducted as part of the investigation.
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