News desk: Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have revealed details of an alleged plot by a flydubai co-pilot to seize control of a passenger aircraft and crash it into Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport. The investigation concerns an incident on September 30 involving flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv before being diverted to Saudi Arabia.
According to the UAE Public Prosecution, the 29-year-old Omani co-pilot allegedly intended to take control of the aircraft and crash it into the airport’s passenger terminal, potentially causing mass casualties. The aircraft ultimately landed safely at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia after other crew members intervened.
The UAE Attorney-General, Dr Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, announced the latest findings on October 9. Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing.
Alleged attack inside the cockpit
Investigators allege that the co-pilot attacked the captain inside the cockpit using an emergency axe. The captain reportedly resisted and attempted to call for help.
A pilot travelling on the aircraft, along with a cabin crew member and several passengers, allegedly intervened after noticing unusual activity around the cockpit. They helped rescue the captain and restrain the suspect, allowing the replacement flight crew to regain control of the aircraft.
Flydubai separately confirmed that all passengers were safe and accounted for following the incident.
Two earlier trips to Tel Aviv
According to prosecutors, the suspect had travelled to Tel Aviv on two earlier flights before the September 30 incident. Investigators allege that these journeys were intended to familiarise him with the route and airport.
The UAE authorities also said their investigation traced the suspect’s alleged exposure to extremist ideology to 2017, when he was studying in Australia. They claimed he had accessed extremist literature and online material glorifying terrorist organisations and suicide attacks.
Investigators further stated that the September 11, 2001, attacks in the United States had allegedly inspired his plan. These claims form part of the prosecution’s account and have not been established through a completed judicial process.
Previous airline employment under scrutiny
The suspect reportedly worked for Oman Air from 2020 to 2024, joined Royal Air Maroc in early 2025 and moved to flydubai in January 2026.
According to the UAE Attorney-General, recruitment checks had not identified warning signs relating to the suspect’s alleged extremist views or intentions. He reportedly held the necessary pilot’s licence and had provided a certificate of good conduct.
A forensic medical report found recent head injuries to the captain that investigators said were consistent with an assault involving an object matching the description of an emergency axe.
Investigation continues
Authorities said the suspect had allegedly confessed in the presence of his lawyer and claimed that he acted alone. Prosecutors are continuing to examine recordings, technical reports and other evidence to verify his account and determine whether anyone else was involved.
The case has raised questions about cockpit security, airline recruitment procedures and the effectiveness of background checks. However, investigators have not yet completed their inquiry, and the allegations remain subject to further legal proceedings.
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