Flydubai Cockpit Attack: Co-Pilot Reportedly Faced Flying Ban in Oman

Fresh details have emerged in the investigation into the serious incident aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The co-pilot, identified by sources as Omani national Hamam al-Hammami, reportedly had previously been barred from flying in Oman over concerns about extremist views. Reports say investigators are examining his background, previous employment and digital activity to determine whether the incident was deliberate and whether he had any links to extremist organisations. However, several aspects of his alleged motive and connections remain under investigation and have not been independently established.

The UAE Attorney General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi confirmed that the co-pilot attacked Indian captain Smit Machchhar inside the cockpit with a crash axe and attempted to take control of the aircraft. UAE authorities have described the incident as an attempted terrorist attack, while the investigation continues into the motive, possible connections and physical and digital evidence. The aircraft was eventually diverted to Saudi Arabia and landed safely in Tabuk. A crash axe is normally kept in commercial aircraft cockpits for use during emergencies.