TEL AVIV: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed authorities to strengthen security measures for both Israeli and foreign airlines operating flights to and from Israel following a cockpit incident involving a flydubai flight, according to the Prime Minister’s Office.
The incident occurred aboard Flight FZ1073, which was flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv before being diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, following a confrontation between the pilots. Netanyahu described the incident as a serious security threat.
In a video statement, Netanyahu said one pilot allegedly stabbed the other as the aircraft approached Israel and apparently attempted to take control of the plane and endanger those on board. He said almost all of the passengers were Israeli nationals.
According to Netanyahu, several passengers and crew members intervened after the aircraft reportedly began descending rapidly. He said he had spoken with an Israeli passenger who described the plane entering a spin and beginning to dive. The passenger reportedly managed to enter the cockpit with the assistance of a crew member, and they restrained the pilot who was allegedly attempting to interfere with the aircraft’s systems.
Media reports identified the stabbed pilot as Indian national Captain Smit Machchhar, a flydubai captain based in Dubai. Israeli officials identified the other pilot as an Omani national who allegedly attempted to take control of the aircraft.
The Boeing 737 reportedly experienced a rapid descent during the confrontation before passengers and crew members intervened. The aircraft eventually landed safely in Tabuk, where both pilots were taken to a hospital for treatment.
Flydubai has confirmed that an incident took place on board the aircraft but has not publicly disclosed the identities or nationalities of the pilots.
Netanyahu also said another crew member entered the cockpit and helped regain control of the aircraft. He praised the passengers and crew members who intervened, saying their quick response and courage helped save lives and avert a potentially serious disaster.
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