A UAE Ministry of Interior spokesperson declared the mid‑air incident involving flydubai flight FZ1073 a terrorist act after an alleged attempt by an Omani co‑pilot to force the aircraft down.
The incident erupted on Friday when the Dubai‑to‑Tel Aviv flight was diverted to Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia after the co‑pilot allegedly attacked Indian pilot Smit Machchhar. Machchhar, who sustained injuries, managed to open the cockpit door, allowing three Israeli passengers to subdue the attacker, while two other pilots took control of the aircraft and landed it safely.
The UAE has ordered a specialised investigation that will examine all circumstances and motives, including any possible connection to terrorist activity or prior planning. Saudi authorities will conduct the initial probe before transferring the Omani co‑pilot to UAE jurisdiction, where the aircraft is registered and UAE law applies to crimes committed aboard.
The flight, which departed from Dubai International Airport, was forced to land in Saudi Arabia after the altercation, marking the first time a flydubai aircraft has been diverted under such circumstances. The incident has drawn attention from aviation regulators worldwide, who are monitoring the investigation closely.
The investigation is expected to be completed within 60 days, after which the UAE will release a detailed report and decide whether to pursue criminal charges against the co‑pilot.