How was Flydubai co-pilot cleared despite being deemed a security risk?
A Flydubai co-pilot is under investigation for an attempted axe attack on his captain during a flight to Israel. The incident has sparked scrutiny regarding aviation security protocols, as the pilot had previously been flagged for extremist views.
Why it matters
The incident highlights critical gaps in international pilot vetting processes and aviation security, raising concerns about how individuals with security risks can maintain flight credentials.
Aviation security protocols under scrutiny after co-pilot accused of attempted axe attack aboard Flydubai flight.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Passengers board a flydubai flight, bound for Dubai, before taking off from Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv on September 30, 2026 [AFP] By Al Jazeera Staff and AP Published On 4 Oct 2026 4 Oct 2026 A Flydubai co-pilot accused of attacking his captain with an emergency axe and attempting to seize control of the flight bound for Israel had previously been barred from flying over concerns about alleged “extremist” views, raising questions about how he was allowed to fly to Tel Aviv.
The co-pilot has been identified as Hamam al-Hammami, an Omani national, according to multiple media reports.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has described the September 30 incident aboard Flight FZ1073 as an attempted “terrorist” operation .
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