Flydubai flight co-pilot arrested after mid-air cockpit attack

On September 30, 2026, Flydubai flight FZ1073, en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv, was forced to make an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, following a violent cockpit incident. The co-pilot, identified as Hamam al-Hamami, a 29-year-old Omani national, reportedly attacked the Indian captain, Smit Machar, using an emergency cockpit axe in an attempt to seize control of the Boeing aircraft. The plane experienced a sudden, rapid descent of 16,625 feet in 30 seconds before crew members and passengers intervened to subdue the attacker. An off-duty pilot on board helped land the aircraft safely.

The United Arab Emirates prosecutor general officially classified the event as a premeditated terrorist attack. Investigators are currently examining digital evidence and the co-pilot's background, noting he had previously been banned from flying by Omani authorities due to suspected extremist sympathies. Reports indicate that al-Hamami may have targeted high-rise buildings in Tel Aviv or an American military base in Jordan. While authorities in the UAE and Israel continue their inquiry, Australian police are also investigating potential links between the suspect and their country, where he reportedly attended a university. Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly honored the captain for his bravery during the crisis.