On Wednesday, 30 September, flydubai flight FZ1073, a 777‑300ER en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv, transmitted two emergency codes—first 7700, then 7500—after an in‑flight altercation. The pilot crew, consisting of an Emirati captain and an Omani co‑pilot, had been airborne for approximately 150 minutes when the disturbance began. Flight‑Radar data shows the aircraft plunged 17,400 feet, falling from 34,000 to 16,600, in just two minutes.
Passengers reported hearing shouts from the cockpit and a sudden, steep dip. The Omani co‑pilot reportedly stabbed the Emirati captain and attempted to seize control, while the captain allegedly tried to crash the aircraft before being stopped by the co‑pilot and several passengers.
Israeli security officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who convened an emergency meeting, treated the incident as a possible hijacking. The flight was diverted to Tabuk, a Saudi military base, where both pilots were removed under guard.
Investigators are probing whether the captain deliberately crashed the plane or if the co‑pilot attempted to do so, as Israeli authorities consider whether the incident constitutes a terrorist act. The event involved 180 Israeli passengers, heightening the urgency of a swift investigation.
Flydubai’s CEO announced that a replacement aircraft would be dispatched from Dubai to Saudi Arabia and onward to Israel, and that the airline is coordinating with Israeli transport authorities. The airline has pledged full cooperation with the inquiry, which is expected to be finalized by early October.