Israel probes FlyDubai pilot's alleged attempt to crash Dubai-Tel Aviv flight
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Israeli security services are investigating whether a FlyDubai pilot who attacked a colleague mid-flight intended to crash the aircraft into a skyscraper. The Boeing 737, carrying more than 170 people, landed in Saudi Arabia on September 29 after the co-pilot was subdued. FlyDubai has suspended flights to and from Israel pending the investigation.
Key Facts
- A FlyDubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv was diverted to Saudi Arabia on September 29 after one pilot stabbed a colleague and attempted to crash the plane.
- More than 170 people, including Israeli citizens, were on board the aircraft.
- FlyDubai has suspended flights to and from Israel until the investigation is completed.
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu canceled a scheduled visit to southern Israel and convened an emergency meeting.
- Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz called the incident an attempted terrorist act.
The Incident
On September 29, a FlyDubai passenger aircraft was en route from the UAE to Israel when one of the pilots stabbed a colleague and attempted to direct the plane toward the ground. The aircraft was landed in Saudi Arabia after the second pilot was subdued. More than 170 people, including Israeli citizens, were on board.
Investigation and Response
Israeli security services are investigating how the Omani pilot was allowed to board the aircraft, given Israel's strict rules for international flights that permit only citizens of countries with trusted relations with Israel to join the crew. An Israeli security delegation has arrived in Saudi Arabia, according to The Telegraph. FlyDubai has suspended flights to and from Israel until the investigation is completed. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu canceled a scheduled visit to southern Israel and convened an emergency meeting. Defense Minister Israel Katz called the incident an attempted terrorist act, saying initial information indicated the terrorist's goal was to crash the plane with all passengers aboard.
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