A Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv was forced to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday after one of the pilots allegedly attacked the other and attempted to crash the aircraft.
The incident occurred aboard Flight FZ1073 while the plane was travelling toward Israel. A passenger said the aircraft appeared to lose control after the stabbing, prompting passengers and crew members to intervene and restrain the attacker.
The Boeing 737 MAX 8 subsequently diverted to Tabuk in northwestern Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. The pilots were injured and taken to hospital, while passengers were reported safe.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the co-pilot had allegedly tried to crash the aircraft. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the incident as an attempted jihadist terror attack.
However, reports said investigators were still examining the circumstances and possible motive. Israeli officials had earlier indicated that other explanations, including a non-political incident, were being considered.
Saudi authorities arrested the alleged attacker and began questioning him. Flydubai said all passengers were safe and accounted for, while investigations into the incident continued.
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