How Flydubai Pilot Allegedly Tried To Crash Tel Aviv-Bound Plane, Kill 180 Israelis - Minister
A Flydubai flight carrying 180 Israelis was forced to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after an alleged cockpit altercation between the pilot and co-pilot. Israeli officials have characterized the incident as a potential terror attack, though investigations are ongoing.
Why it matters
The incident involves high-stakes security concerns and diplomatic sensitivity between Israel and Saudi Arabia.
The flydubai flight, carrying about 180 Israelis, was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv when the pilots reportedly fought inside the cockpit, forcing the aircraft to make an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
The emergency landing of a Tel Aviv-bound flydubai flight in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday followed an alleged attempt by one of the pilots to crash the aircraft and kill Israeli passengers, Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir said.
Two Israeli officials told Reuters that the co-pilot was believed to have stabbed the captain before cabin crew entered the cockpit and took control of the aircraft.
The officials, who spoke anonymously, said Israel’s initial assessment was that the incident was an attempted “terror attack” and was not linked to a mental health issue involving either pilot.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in