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UAE Says Flydubai Co-Pilot Used Crash Axe to Attack Captain
The UAE prosecutor general has said a flydubai co-pilot used a crash axe and attempted to seize control of an aircraft flying from the UAE to Israel, in what officials described as a "terrorist attack" endangering all 182 people on board.
The co-pilot reportedly sent the plane into a sharp descent before passengers and crew overpowered him. The captain, badly injured, said he used his remaining strength to unlock the cockpit after being stabbed, which allowed others on board to restrain the co-pilot. The aircraft later made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
Investigators are now examining how the co-pilot came to be flying despite previous concerns raised in Oman. A source said Oman had removed him from flying duties over alleged extremist views and moved him into an administrative role. He was later hired by flydubai, though it remains unclear what checks were carried out before that hiring.
Authorities from several regional countries, assisted by the US and other Western governments, are investigating his background and possible motive. His social media account was reportedly deleted after the incident. Israeli officials have alleged radicalisation but have not publicly provided evidence to support this.
Both pilots have been taken to the UAE as the investigation continues.
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