Saudi hands Omani co-pilot in Flydubai flight incident to UAE
Saudi Arabia has handed over an Omani co-pilot, accused of attacking his captain and attempting to crash a Flydubai flight, to the UAE for further investigation. The incident, which led to an emergency landing, is being probed for possible motives including terrorism, mental disorders, and Islamist indoctrination, with Israeli authorities also involved.
Why it matters
This incident raises serious concerns about aviation security and potential radicalization within flight crews, with international implications given the involvement of multiple countries and the Israel-bound nature of the flight.
The Omani co-pilot accused of attacking the captain of a Flydubai flight and attempting to take control of the aircraft has been handed over by Saudi Arabia to the United Arab Emirates, as investigators examine whether the incident was a deliberate attempt to bring down the Israel-bound plane. Saudi authorities had been conducting the preliminary probe after the aircraft made an emergency landing in Tabuk.Investigators examine possible motivesThe UAE has now taken over the investigation, with Israeli authorities also involved. The Emirati government said its team was examining the attack and “whether it was linked to any terrorist purpose”. The UAE has jurisdiction because the aircraft is registered there and its laws apply to crimes committed on board.A regional official said several possibilities remained under investigation, including terrorism and mental disorders. “All possible scenarios, from terrorism to mental disorders, are being looked into.
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