Indian pilot hailed for helping avert disaster as investigators examine the Omani co-pilot’s background and security clearances
An attempted attack aboard a flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv has triggered investigations and security questions across six countries after an Omani co-pilot allegedly attacked the Indian captain in the cockpit.
Flydubai Flight FZ1073 was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30 with more than 170 people aboard when the aircraft went into a steep descent after co-pilot Hammam al-Hammami allegedly attacked Captain Smit Machchhar with a cockpit crash axe. The injured Indian pilot managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to overpower the co-pilot. Two other pilots on board then helped regain control of the aircraft.
The Boeing 737 was diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. Saudi authorities detained al-Hammami before he was later transferred to the UAE. The UAE is leading the investigation and formally described the incident as an attempted terrorist attack.
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India’s connection to the case centres on Machchhar, whose actions have been widely praised
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke to the pilot and commended his courage
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Indian officials in Saudi Arabia have also assisted Machchhar and his family during his recovery
Israel, the intended destination, has ordered a review of security procedures for foreign airline crews operating flights into the country. The incident has also raised questions about how an Omani national was cleared for an Israel-bound service, given that Oman does not have diplomatic relations with Israel.
Investigators are examining al-Hammami’s previous aviation career in Oman. Reports indicate that he had worked for Oman Air and was removed from flying duties following concerns over extremist views before subsequently joining flydubai.
Australia has also opened an inquiry because al-Hammami reportedly studied in Melbourne. Australian authorities are examining his links to the country and whether any radicalisation occurred during his time there.
The UAE-led investigation is continuing, with authorities examining the suspect’s motive, background and whether anyone else was involved. No broader terrorist network has so far been publicly established.
