Flydubai flight Dubai to Tel Aviv makes emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after pilot attack

A flydubai flight FZ1073 traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia on September 30 after a thwarted terror attack. Inside the cockpit, one pilot stabbed his colleague and forced the aircraft into a steep dive. The plane lost 4,300 meters of altitude in under 30 seconds, dropping to 4,500 meters at near-sonic speed. The crew transmitted a 7700 emergency signal, which later changed to a 7500 hijacking code.

The Israeli Air Force scrambled fighter jets due to the terror threat and the aircraft’s temporary disappearance from radar. Passengers realized the danger from the sudden drop and screams from the cockpit, prompting them to break down the door. They subdued the armed pilot and helped level the aircraft. Once stabilized, the plane diverted to the airport in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.

The aircraft carried approximately 180 people, including 27 children. All passengers are unharmed and remain under guard at the Tabuk airport terminal while awaiting a replacement flight. The injured pilot is in critical condition. An Israeli passenger, who works as a dentist, provided emergency medical aid during the flight.

Saudi security forces took custody of the attacker and initiated an investigation. Officials debunked initial rumors regarding the pilots’ Russian and Ukrainian citizenship, confirming they are nationals of the UAE and Oman. Israeli authorities classified the incident as a prevented terror attack, while aviation agencies investigate how a weapon was brought into the cockpit.

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