Officials in the United Arab Emirates have said that authorities shared details of passengers and crew on the FlyDubai aircraft with Israel, but it raised no concern about any of them. Associated Press reported that regional UAE officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the names and nationalities of everyone on the plane were sent to Israel.&nbsp;UAE is leading the investigation into the attempted hijacking of the FlyDubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The plane with 182 passengers and crew witnessed a major scare when the co-pilot attacked the flight's captain with an axe, which caused the plane to plummet by several feet. It went down nearly 14,000–16,000 feet in under a minute before control was regained. The captain managed to open the cockpit door and raise an alarm, after which the off-duty pilots steadied the plane, while passengers helped subdue the attacker.<h2>How was an Omani pilot allowed on flight?</h2>Preliminary details from the investigation have revealed several major security lapses. The biggest point under the scanner is how an Omani co-pilot was allowed to be on the flight. Officials have said that his own country had barred him from flying because of his extremist views. Further, having a citizen of Oman, an Arab country with no diplomatic relations with Israel, flying a plane full of Israelis to Tel Aviv also remains a mystery.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-afraid-of-death-flydubai-co-pilot-tells-probe-team-confesses-he-wanted-to-crash-jet-1791125529918">‘Not afraid of death': Flydubai co-pilot tells probe team, 'planned to crash into Tel Aviv tower, Ben Gurion'</a>&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday that Israel has long-standing agreements with foreign carriers under which pilots who are citizens of nations that don’t maintain diplomatic relations with Israel are not allowed to fly into the country. Netanyahu has ordered the head of the National Security Council to have "all security aspects regarding foreign civil aviation to Israel" reviewed.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-orders-security-review-of-foreign-flights-to-israel-after-flydubai-attack-1791140574447">Netanyahu orders security review of foreign flights to Israel after flydubai attack</a>&nbsp;Sharing lists of passengers and crew is a regular practice. But it is unclear whether each and every person is vetted by authorities. The Shin Bet, Israel’s domestic security agency, said the Transportation Ministry is responsible for this. Meanwhile, Transportation Minister Miri Regev said on X that her ministry did not receive a list of passengers or any warnings.&nbsp;Dvir Rubenstien, the head of aviation security at the Transportation Ministry, told Army Radio that it does not have the means to run checks on each passenger on every flight, and it relies on local security checks for this.<h2>What Oman said about the attacker co-pilot</h2>&nbsp;The Sultanate of Oman said in an official statement on Monday that the co-pilot was "an Omani national, born in the UAE, whose mother is of Syrian origin. He spent a significant part of his life outside Oman." It added, "He worked for a limited period as a trainee at an Omani airline. However, when the Omani authorities identified, at an early stage, his interest in accessing extremist websites on the internet, he was prevented from working in the aviation sector."&nbsp;Oman also clarified that the "Omani authorities were not asked to provide any information before his employment. Had such information been requested, Oman would have shared the information available on him, as it is doing now."

A list of every passenger and crew on board the FlyDubai flight was shared with Israel, but no one raised any concerns about anyone, UAE officials have reportedly said. Israeli authorities have meanwhile said they cannot vet everyone on every flight.  

Officials in the United Arab Emirates have said that authorities shared details of passengers and crew on the FlyDubai aircraft with Israel, but it raised no concern about any of them. Associated Press reported that regional UAE officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the names and nationalities of everyone on the plane were sent to Israel. UAE is leading the investigation into the attempted hijacking of the FlyDubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The plane with 182 passengers and crew witnessed a major scare when the co-pilot attacked the flight's captain with an axe, which caused the plane to plummet by several feet. It went down nearly 14,000–16,000 feet in under a minute before control was regained. The captain managed to open the cockpit door and raise an alarm, after which the off-duty pilots steadied the plane, while passengers helped subdue the attacker. How was an Omani pilot allowed on flight? Preliminary details from the investigation have revealed several major security lapses. The biggest point under the scanner is how an Omani co-pilot was allowed to be on the flight. Officials have said that his own country had barred him from flying because of his extremist views. Further, having a citizen of Oman, an Arab country with no diplomatic relations with Israel, flying a plane full of Israelis to Tel Aviv also remains a mystery. Also Read: ‘Not afraid of death': Flydubai co-pilot tells probe team, 'planned to crash into Tel Aviv tower, Ben Gurion' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday that Israel has long-standing agreements with foreign carriers under which pilots who are citizens of nations that don’t maintain diplomatic relations with Israel are not allowed to fly into the country. Netanyahu has ordered the head of the National Security Council to have "all security aspects regarding foreign civil aviation to Israel" reviewed. Also Read: Netanyahu orders security review of foreign flights to Israel after flydubai attack Sharing lists of passengers and crew is a regular practice. But it is unclear whether each and every person is vetted by authorities. The Shin Bet, Israel’s domestic security agency, said the Transportation Ministry is responsible for this. Meanwhile, Transportation Minister Miri Regev said on X that her ministry did not receive a list of passengers or any warnings. Dvir Rubenstien, the head of aviation security at the Transportation Ministry, told Army Radio that it does not have the means to run checks on each passenger on every flight, and it relies on local security checks for this. What Oman said about the attacker co-pilot The Sultanate of Oman said in an official statement on Monday that the co-pilot was "an Omani national, born in the UAE, whose mother is of Syrian origin. He spent a significant part of his life outside Oman." It added, "He worked for a limited period as a trainee at an Omani airline. However, when the Omani authorities identified, at an early stage, his interest in accessing extremist websites on the internet, he was prevented from working in the aviation sector." Oman also clarified that the "Omani authorities were not asked to provide any information before his employment. Had such information been requested, Oman would have shared the information available on him, as it is doing now."

A list of every passenger and crew on board the FlyDubai flight was shared with Israel, but no one raised any concerns about anyone, UAE officials have reportedly said. Israeli authorities have meanwhile said they cannot vet everyone on every flight. &nbsp;

Israel had list of everyone on board FlyDubai flight, raised no red flags: Report

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (Oct 2) warned that whoever was behind the Flydubai incident will pay a “very heavy price”. This comes two days after a Flydubai flight was nearly hijacked while it was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv when the co-pilot attacked the captain and attempted to crash the plane. Despite being severely injured, Indian Captain Smit Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers to enter and overpower the attacker. Netanyahu said that the attacker “underwent Islamist radicalisation”.Netanyahu issues stark warning“As time passes, the picture is becoming clearer: The attacker underwent Islamist radicalisation. He came to crash the plane with all passengers on board,” Netanyahu said.“We are investigating whether he was sent, and whoever sent him will pay a very heavy price,” the Israeli prime minister said of the co-pilot assailant.Netanyahu did not name any country as potentially being behind the attack. However, he has often pointed the finger at Iran, which Israel and the United States attacked in February.A day earlier, Netanyahu told Fox News, “We know that he underwent Islamist radical indoctrination.”“The attacker, he calls out to the aircrew, ‘Kill me, kill me’,” he said, adding it was “clear he was suicidal.”Trump threatens IranUS President Donald Trump on Thursday (Oct 1) threatened that Iran will be “hit very hard” if it is found to be linked to the Flydubai incident. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump was asked whether Iran was involved in the incident.“I would say the answer, based on what I’m hearing, is yes but we’re working on it right now,” Trump responded.When asked whether the US would retaliate against Iran if it was found responsible, Trump said, “Oh, they’ll be hit very hard, don’t worry.”Meanwhile, Axios reported that Washington had recently deployed additional Patriot missile batteries to Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The report added that the Pentagon is also sending another aircraft carrier, USS Theodore Roosevelt, to the Middle East, along with additional troops. &nbsp;

Israeli PM Netanyahu warned that whoever was behind the Flydubai attack will pay a “very heavy price”, as he said the co-pilot had undergone Islamist radicalisation. Israel is probing if he was sent.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (Oct 2) warned that whoever was behind the Flydubai incident will pay a “very heavy price”. This comes two days after a Flydubai flight was nearly hijacked while it was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv when the co-pilot attacked the captain and attempted to crash the plane. Despite being severely injured, Indian Captain Smit Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers to enter and overpower the attacker. Netanyahu said that the attacker “underwent Islamist radicalisation”. Netanyahu issues stark warning “As time passes, the picture is becoming clearer: The attacker underwent Islamist radicalisation. He came to crash the plane with all passengers on board,” Netanyahu said. “We are investigating whether he was sent, and whoever sent him will pay a very heavy price,” the Israeli prime minister said of the co-pilot assailant. Netanyahu did not name any country as potentially being behind the attack. However, he has often pointed the finger at Iran, which Israel and the United States attacked in February. A day earlier, Netanyahu told Fox News, “We know that he underwent Islamist radical indoctrination.” “The attacker, he calls out to the aircrew, ‘Kill me, kill me’,” he said, adding it was “clear he was suicidal.” Trump threatens Iran US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Oct 1) threatened that Iran will be “hit very hard” if it is found to be linked to the Flydubai incident. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump was asked whether Iran was involved in the incident. “I would say the answer, based on what I’m hearing, is yes but we’re working on it right now,” Trump responded. When asked whether the US would retaliate against Iran if it was found responsible, Trump said, “Oh, they’ll be hit very hard, don’t worry.” Meanwhile, Axios reported that Washington had recently deployed additional Patriot missile batteries to Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The report added that the Pentagon is also sending another aircraft carrier, USS Theodore Roosevelt, to the Middle East, along with additional troops.

Israeli PM Netanyahu warned that whoever was behind the Flydubai attack will pay a “very heavy price”, as he said the co-pilot had undergone Islamist radicalisation. Israel is probing if he was sent.

‘Whoever sent him...’: Netanyahu issues chilling warning after Flydubai hijack attempt

United Arab Emirates presidential adviser Anwar Gargash on Friday (Oct 2) called the Flydubai incident a “terrorist act”. The co-pilot of flight FZ1073 attacked Indian Captain Smit Machchhar mid-flight in an attempt to hijack the flight with the intention of crashing it. However, Machchhar resisted his co-pilot and managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers to rush in and overpower the attacker and saving 180 lives. Gargash also hailed the courage of the captain, who is currently undergoing treatment in the UAE.&nbsp;In a post on X, the official said, “The Indian pilot at ‘Flydubai,’ Smit Machchhar, deserves every bit of appreciation, for he embodied the meaning of courage and responsibility in the face of a dangerous terrorist act and a potential disaster. His professionalism and moral sense in the darkest of circumstances make him a true hero.”He added, “Far from the easy reduction of what happened or the adoption and promotion of conspiracy theories, vigilance and caution remain essential in confronting the risks of extremism and terrorism.”<h2>What happened on Flydubai flight?</h2>A major hijacking attempt was foiled on a Flydubai flight, carrying 174 passengers, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on Wednesday (Sep 30). The situation onboard turned chaotic when the Omani co-pilot attempted to murder Indian Captain Smit Machchhar and hijack the flight with the intention of crashing it. Machchhar bravely fought with his co-pilot and managed to open the cockpit door despite battling severe wounds and blood loss.Once the cockpit door was open, passengers rushed in and overpowered the co-pilot, restraining him. A dentist on the flight tended to Machchhar’s injuries and stabilised him. Two off-duty pilots, who were among the passengers, took control of the flight and made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.During the altercation, the plane suddenly plunged several feet, from nearly 34,000 feet to less than 17,000 feet. The plane also sent distress signal 7700, a general international emergency signal. It also briefly sent the code 7500, which signals hijacking and unlawful interference, before it went back to the original distress code.From there, the Israeli passengers were sent on another flight, also operated by Flydubai, to their intended destination in Tel Aviv. No other crew members or passengers were injured in the incident. Machchhar underwent surgery in Saudi Arabia after landing. He was airlifted to the UAE on Thursday (Oct 1).

UAE adviser Anwar Gargash called the Flydubai incident a “terrorist act” and praised Indian Captain Smit Machchhar for resisting the attacker and helping save 180 lives.

United Arab Emirates presidential adviser Anwar Gargash on Friday (Oct 2) called the Flydubai incident a “terrorist act”. The co-pilot of flight FZ1073 attacked Indian Captain Smit Machchhar mid-flight in an attempt to hijack the flight with the intention of crashing it. However, Machchhar resisted his co-pilot and managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers to rush in and overpower the attacker and saving 180 lives. Gargash also hailed the courage of the captain, who is currently undergoing treatment in the UAE. In a post on X, the official said, “The Indian pilot at ‘Flydubai,’ Smit Machchhar, deserves every bit of appreciation, for he embodied the meaning of courage and responsibility in the face of a dangerous terrorist act and a potential disaster. His professionalism and moral sense in the darkest of circumstances make him a true hero.” He added, “Far from the easy reduction of what happened or the adoption and promotion of conspiracy theories, vigilance and caution remain essential in confronting the risks of extremism and terrorism.” What happened on Flydubai flight? A major hijacking attempt was foiled on a Flydubai flight, carrying 174 passengers, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on Wednesday (Sep 30). The situation onboard turned chaotic when the Omani co-pilot attempted to murder Indian Captain Smit Machchhar and hijack the flight with the intention of crashing it. Machchhar bravely fought with his co-pilot and managed to open the cockpit door despite battling severe wounds and blood loss. Once the cockpit door was open, passengers rushed in and overpowered the co-pilot, restraining him. A dentist on the flight tended to Machchhar’s injuries and stabilised him. Two off-duty pilots, who were among the passengers, took control of the flight and made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. During the altercation, the plane suddenly plunged several feet, from nearly 34,000 feet to less than 17,000 feet. The plane also sent distress signal 7700, a general international emergency signal. It also briefly sent the code 7500, which signals hijacking and unlawful interference, before it went back to the original distress code. From there, the Israeli passengers were sent on another flight, also operated by Flydubai, to their intended destination in Tel Aviv. No other crew members or passengers were injured in the incident. Machchhar underwent surgery in Saudi Arabia after landing. He was airlifted to the UAE on Thursday (Oct 1).

UAE adviser Anwar Gargash called the Flydubai incident a “terrorist act” and praised Indian Captain Smit Machchhar for resisting the attacker and helping save 180 lives.

UAE official calls Flydubai incident a ‘terrorist act’, praises Indian captain

The attempted hijacking of a Flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Israel on Wednesday (Sep 30) triggered a security response designed to deal with one of the most serious scenarios in aviation: a suspicious civilian aircraft approaching Israeli airspace. The incident began after one of the pilots attacked his co-pilot mid-air and attempted to hijack the aircraft with the intention of crashing it. This prompted the activation of a distress signal while the plane was still outside Israeli airspace. The alert was enough to set Israel’s aviation and security procedures in motion.<h2>Two checkpoints before Israeli airspace</h2>Aircraft approaching Israel pass through two designated points at set distances from the country’s borders. These points act as stages for identification, clearance and monitoring before an aircraft can proceed towards its destination.At the designated points, pilots are required to identify their aircraft to Israeli air traffic control using an agreed code. This allows authorities to establish whether the aircraft has the required authorisation and permits to enter Israeli airspace.The first checkpoint is positioned far enough from Israel to give the Israel Defence Forces time to respond if an aircraft fails to identify itself or if there are signs of an unusual incident. That can include scrambling fighter jets. However, the launch of fighter aircraft does not automatically mean an aircraft is considered a target. Communication failures, technical problems or other emergencies can also leave a passenger aircraft unable to establish contact with air traffic control.<h2>Fighter jets can establish visual contact</h2>If radio communication fails, fighter pilots can attempt to communicate with the aircraft visually. One procedure involves passengers being asked to keep window shades open before a flight. If fighter jets are required to fly alongside a passenger aircraft, this can allow their pilots to observe what is happening inside the plane, including the cockpit. Visible signs of unusual activity can help fighter pilots assess the situation.There are also established visual signals that pilots aboard passenger aircraft can use to communicate with military aircraft during an emergency. These procedures supplement radio communications and distress signals.The system is designed to give authorities time to move through several stages – monitoring, identification, examination, verification and interception – before reaching the most extreme option.<h2>What happens if a civilian aircraft becomes a threat?</h2>The Flydubai aircraft activated its distress signal while it was still well outside Israeli airspace. Nevertheless, the alert automatically triggered the relevant aviation and security systems, allowing authorities to prepare a response.A former senior Israel Air Force officer told The Jerusalem Post that personnel involved in such scenarios are extensively drilled.“All the organisations, bodies, and officials involved are drilled for a scenario of this kind down to a matter of minutes, in order to carry out a precise process in response to an airborne terrorism scenario,” the former officer said.In an extreme situation, Israel’s top leadership can become directly involved.<h2>Prime Minister holds final authority</h2>According to the former senior officer, the prime minister, defence minister, IDF chief of staff and Israel Air Force commander are brought onto a conference call within a very short time.The available information is presented, and the prime minister has the final authority over whether a civilian aircraft should be shot down.“The prime minister has to be on the line. He makes the decision…”The former officer said the decision reflects the devastating consequences of either option.“There is a difference between shooting down a passenger aircraft with 175 passengers and a civilian aircraft with 175 civilians crashing into the Azrieli Towers with a thousand people killed.”For that reason, the response is structured as a sequence of checks rather than an immediate military action, giving authorities time to determine what is happening before the most consequential decision is considered.

Flydubai’s hijack scare activated Israel’s aviation security procedures. From distress signals and fighter jets to visual communication and top-level decision-making, here’s how the system responds to such threats.

The attempted hijacking of a Flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Israel on Wednesday (Sep 30) triggered a security response designed to deal with one of the most serious scenarios in aviation: a suspicious civilian aircraft approaching Israeli airspace. The incident began after one of the pilots attacked his co-pilot mid-air and attempted to hijack the aircraft with the intention of crashing it. This prompted the activation of a distress signal while the plane was still outside Israeli airspace. The alert was enough to set Israel’s aviation and security procedures in motion. Two checkpoints before Israeli airspace Aircraft approaching Israel pass through two designated points at set distances from the country’s borders. These points act as stages for identification, clearance and monitoring before an aircraft can proceed towards its destination. At the designated points, pilots are required to identify their aircraft to Israeli air traffic control using an agreed code. This allows authorities to establish whether the aircraft has the required authorisation and permits to enter Israeli airspace. The first checkpoint is positioned far enough from Israel to give the Israel Defence Forces time to respond if an aircraft fails to identify itself or if there are signs of an unusual incident. That can include scrambling fighter jets. However, the launch of fighter aircraft does not automatically mean an aircraft is considered a target. Communication failures, technical problems or other emergencies can also leave a passenger aircraft unable to establish contact with air traffic control. Fighter jets can establish visual contact If radio communication fails, fighter pilots can attempt to communicate with the aircraft visually. One procedure involves passengers being asked to keep window shades open before a flight. If fighter jets are required to fly alongside a passenger aircraft, this can allow their pilots to observe what is happening inside the plane, including the cockpit. Visible signs of unusual activity can help fighter pilots assess the situation. There are also established visual signals that pilots aboard passenger aircraft can use to communicate with military aircraft during an emergency. These procedures supplement radio communications and distress signals. The system is designed to give authorities time to move through several stages – monitoring, identification, examination, verification and interception – before reaching the most extreme option. What happens if a civilian aircraft becomes a threat? The Flydubai aircraft activated its distress signal while it was still well outside Israeli airspace. Nevertheless, the alert automatically triggered the relevant aviation and security systems, allowing authorities to prepare a response. A former senior Israel Air Force officer told The Jerusalem Post that personnel involved in such scenarios are extensively drilled. “All the organisations, bodies, and officials involved are drilled for a scenario of this kind down to a matter of minutes, in order to carry out a precise process in response to an airborne terrorism scenario,” the former officer said. In an extreme situation, Israel’s top leadership can become directly involved. Prime Minister holds final authority According to the former senior officer, the prime minister, defence minister, IDF chief of staff and Israel Air Force commander are brought onto a conference call within a very short time. The available information is presented, and the prime minister has the final authority over whether a civilian aircraft should be shot down. “The prime minister has to be on the line. He makes the decision…” The former officer said the decision reflects the devastating consequences of either option. “There is a difference between shooting down a passenger aircraft with 175 passengers and a civilian aircraft with 175 civilians crashing into the Azrieli Towers with a thousand people killed.” For that reason, the response is structured as a sequence of checks rather than an immediate military action, giving authorities time to determine what is happening before the most consequential decision is considered.

Flydubai’s hijack scare activated Israel’s aviation security procedures. From distress signals and fighter jets to visual communication and top-level decision-making, here’s how the system responds to such threats.

Flydubai hijack scare: How Israel’s aviation security system responds to threats

Indian pilot Smit Machchhar, the captain of the Flydubai flight FZ1073 that was nearly hijacked a day earlier, has been airlifted to Abu Dhabi for advanced medical care on Thursday (Oct 1). During the flight, Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot, who attempted to hijack the aircraft with the intention of crashing it. Despite being severely injured, the seasoned pilot resisted the Omani pilot’s attempt to kill everyone on board and bravely fought him back. He managed to open the cockpit door, which allowed passengers to rush in and overpower the attacker. Machchhar saved the lives of all 174 passengers on board and has been dubbed a “hero” for his courage. He was praised by world leaders including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump.Machchhar suffered stab wounds in the cockpit violence and was bleeding profusely. While a dentist onboard tended to his wounds and made his condition stable, his health deteriorated slightly as the plane made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. Two off-duty pilots had taken over the flight controls after the ordeal was brought under control.After landing at Tabuk Airport, Machchhar underwent surgery at a local hospital. After his condition was stabilised, arrangements were made to airlift him to Abu Dhabi for further specialised treatment.<h2>‘Machchhar in good health and recovering’</h2>Ambassador of India to the UAE Deepak Mittal visited the Indian pilot and his family at the hospital. He added that Captain Machchhar is in good health and recovering well.In a statement, the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi said, “Amb Deepak Mittal visited Captain Smit Machchhar and his family at the hospital. Captain Machchhar is in good health and recovering well. The Embassy remains in close coordination with local authorities to ensure his continued medical care and well-being.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Amb <a href="https://x.com/d_mittal73?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@d_mittal73</a> visited Captain Smit Machchhar and his family at the hospital. Captain Machchhar is in good health and recovering well. The Embassy remains in close coordination with local authorities to ensure his continued medical care and well-being.&mdash; India in UAE (@IndembAbuDhabi) <a href="https://x.com/IndembAbuDhabi/status/2105656195659047338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Who is Smit Machchhar?</h2>Smit Machchhar, an Indian aviation professional and former SpiceJet commander, was serving as captain on Flydubai Flight FZ1073, a Boeing 737 MAX 8 travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. According to his LinkedIn profile, he has more than 13 years of experience and over 9,750 flying hours across Boeing 737 aircraft, including the B737-800 and B737 MAX 8/9.Machchhar has been working for Flydubai as a captain since June 2022. Before this, he worked for 11 years with SpiceJet, where he was a senior commander. He has also served as a Line Training Captain and is skilled in mentoring and assessing pilots.The Indian pilot completed his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Welingkar Institute of Management.<h2>What happened on Flydubai flight?</h2>A major hijacking attempt was foiled on a Flydubai flight, carrying 174 passengers, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on Wednesday (Sep 30). The situation onboard turned chaotic when the Omani co-pilot attempted to murder Indian Captain Smit Machchhar and hijack the flight with the intention of crashing it. Machchhar bravely fought with his co-pilot and managed to open the cockpit door despite battling severe wounds and blood loss.Once the cockpit door was open, passengers rushed in and overpowered the co-pilot, restraining him. A dentist on the flight tended to Machchhar’s injuries and stabilised him. Two off-duty pilots, who were among the passengers, took control of the flight and made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.During the altercation, the plane suddenly plunged several feet, from nearly 34,000 feet to less than 17,000 feet. The plane also sent distress signal 7700, a general international emergency signal. It also briefly sent the code 7500, which signals hijacking and unlawful interference, before it went back to the original distress code.From there, the Israeli passengers were sent on another flight, also operated by Flydubai, to their intended destination in Tel Aviv. No other crew members or passengers were injured in the incident. Machchhar underwent surgery in Saudi Arabia after landing. He was airlifted to the UAE on Thursday (Oct 1).&nbsp;

Indian pilot Smit Machchhar, who fought off a co-pilot’s hijacking attempt aboard Flydubai FZ1073, has been airlifted to Abu Dhabi for advanced treatment after suffering stab wounds.

Indian pilot Smit Machchhar, the captain of the Flydubai flight FZ1073 that was nearly hijacked a day earlier, has been airlifted to Abu Dhabi for advanced medical care on Thursday (Oct 1). During the flight, Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot, who attempted to hijack the aircraft with the intention of crashing it. Despite being severely injured, the seasoned pilot resisted the Omani pilot’s attempt to kill everyone on board and bravely fought him back. He managed to open the cockpit door, which allowed passengers to rush in and overpower the attacker. Machchhar saved the lives of all 174 passengers on board and has been dubbed a “hero” for his courage. He was praised by world leaders including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump. Machchhar suffered stab wounds in the cockpit violence and was bleeding profusely. While a dentist onboard tended to his wounds and made his condition stable, his health deteriorated slightly as the plane made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. Two off-duty pilots had taken over the flight controls after the ordeal was brought under control. After landing at Tabuk Airport, Machchhar underwent surgery at a local hospital. After his condition was stabilised, arrangements were made to airlift him to Abu Dhabi for further specialised treatment. ‘Machchhar in good health and recovering’ Ambassador of India to the UAE Deepak Mittal visited the Indian pilot and his family at the hospital. He added that Captain Machchhar is in good health and recovering well. In a statement, the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi said, “Amb Deepak Mittal visited Captain Smit Machchhar and his family at the hospital. Captain Machchhar is in good health and recovering well. The Embassy remains in close coordination with local authorities to ensure his continued medical care and well-being.”

Indian pilot Smit Machchhar, who fought off a co-pilot’s hijacking attempt aboard Flydubai FZ1073, has been airlifted to Abu Dhabi for advanced treatment after suffering stab wounds.

Flydubai cockpit violence: Indian Capt Smit Machchhar airlifted to Abu Dhabi for advanced medical treatment

Yaniv Hayoun, the Israeli plumber who was among the passengers who helped thwart the hijacking of the Flydubai flight on Wednesday (Sep 30), said that he learned to fly the plane from a TV show. Hayoun told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that he took control of the flight controls to prevent the plane from crashing after the co-pilot attacked Indian Captain Smit Machchhar in an attempt to hijack the flight.After landing in Tel Aviv, Yaniv detailed what happened inside the cockpit of flight FZ 1073 when the Omani pilot tried to hijack the plane with the intention of crashing it. An altercation broke out between the two pilots. Despite being severely injured, Machchhar managed to open the door of the cockpit, which allowed passengers to overpower the Omani pilot.<h2>What did Yaniv tell Netanyahu</h2>“We pinned him down to keep him secure and then I jumped into it (the cockpit) and pulled the controls,” Yaniv told the Israeli prime minister.Incredulously, Netanyahu asked how Yaniv knew how to pull the controls backwards. To this, he replied, “I watch Air Crash Investigations Mr Prime Minister.”Yaniv added that the plane began to level after he gripped the controls briefly and an off-duty pilot told him that he would take it from there.Detailing how he helped overpower the co-pilot, Yaniv said, “I pushed the door; the pilot who was stabbed was simply very close to the door, so it was hard for us to open. We pulled him out – it was a matter of seconds.”Netanyahu praised Yaniv for his “tremendous resourcefulness”. US President Donald Trump also praised Yaniv’s “amazing” actions. Following the hijacking scare, photos showed Yaniv in a bloodied T-shirt.Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Thursday (Oct 1) said that he would present “heroism” awards to five Israelis who helped overpower the co-pilot and prevented him from crashing the plane.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">FLYDUBAI HERO YONIV RECOUNTS HOW HE STOPPED THE DIVE Yoniv, who reportedly rushed into the cockpit during the Flydubai incident, told Israeli PM Netanyahu: “I pulled the throttles and stopped the dive. I see ‘flight under investigation.’” <a href="https://t.co/87o8cxw9n6">pic.twitter.com/87o8cxw9n6</a>&mdash; Subodh Kumar (@kumarsubodh_) <a href="https://x.com/kumarsubodh_/status/2105346315207295181?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What happened on Flydubai flight?</h2>A major hijacking attempt was foiled on a Flydubai flight, carrying 174 passengers, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on Wednesday (Sep 30). The situation onboard turned chaotic when the Omani co-pilot attempted to murder Indian Captain Smit Machchhar and hijack the flight with the intention of crashing it. Machchhar bravely fought with his co-pilot and managed to open the cockpit door despite battling severe wounds and blood loss.Once the cockpit door was open, passengers rushed in and overpowered the co-pilot, restraining him. A dentist on the flight tended to Machchhar’s injuries and stabilised him. Two off-duty pilots, who were among the passengers, took control of the flight and made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.During the altercation, the plane suddenly plunged several feet, from nearly 34,000 feet to less than 17,000 feet. The plane also sent distress signal 7700, a general international emergency signal. It also briefly sent the code 7500, which signals hijacking and unlawful interference, before it went back to the original distress code.From there, the Israeli passengers were sent on another flight, also operated by Flydubai, to their intended destination in Tel Aviv. No other crew members or passengers were injured in the incident. Machchhar underwent surgery in Saudi Arabia after landing. He was airlifted to the UAE on Thursday (Oct 1).&nbsp;

An Israeli plumber who helped foil the Flydubai hijacking told PM Netanyahu he learned to handle the aircraft controls from a TV show as passengers fought to save the flight.

Yaniv Hayoun, the Israeli plumber who was among the passengers who helped thwart the hijacking of the Flydubai flight on Wednesday (Sep 30), said that he learned to fly the plane from a TV show. Hayoun told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that he took control of the flight controls to prevent the plane from crashing after the co-pilot attacked Indian Captain Smit Machchhar in an attempt to hijack the flight. After landing in Tel Aviv, Yaniv detailed what happened inside the cockpit of flight FZ 1073 when the Omani pilot tried to hijack the plane with the intention of crashing it. An altercation broke out between the two pilots. Despite being severely injured, Machchhar managed to open the door of the cockpit, which allowed passengers to overpower the Omani pilot. What did Yaniv tell Netanyahu “We pinned him down to keep him secure and then I jumped into it (the cockpit) and pulled the controls,” Yaniv told the Israeli prime minister. Incredulously, Netanyahu asked how Yaniv knew how to pull the controls backwards. To this, he replied, “I watch Air Crash Investigations Mr Prime Minister.” Yaniv added that the plane began to level after he gripped the controls briefly and an off-duty pilot told him that he would take it from there. Detailing how he helped overpower the co-pilot, Yaniv said, “I pushed the door; the pilot who was stabbed was simply very close to the door, so it was hard for us to open. We pulled him out – it was a matter of seconds.” Netanyahu praised Yaniv for his “tremendous resourcefulness”. US President Donald Trump also praised Yaniv’s “amazing” actions. Following the hijacking scare, photos showed Yaniv in a bloodied T-shirt. Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Thursday (Oct 1) said that he would present “heroism” awards to five Israelis who helped overpower the co-pilot and prevented him from crashing the plane.

An Israeli plumber who helped foil the Flydubai hijacking told PM Netanyahu he learned to handle the aircraft controls from a TV show as passengers fought to save the flight.

‘I watch Air Crash Investigations’: How Israeli plumber briefly took control of Flydubai flight amid hijack scare

A Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv was forced to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday (Sep 30) after the co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain in the cockpit, triggering a struggle for control of the aircraft. The Boeing 737, operating as flight FZ1073, reportedly descended sharply over Jordanian airspace before passengers and crew intervened. All 174 passengers were eventually brought to safety.The name of the hero pilot who has been credited with preventing what could've been a tragedy has been made public. Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar has been hailed as a "hero" by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. But who was the co-pilot behind the horrific stabbing and attempted plane crash? Here's all we know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hero-pm-modi-praises-indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-who-helped-avert-flydubai-tragedy-1790819874962">‘HERO’: PM Modi praises Indian pilot Smit Machchhar who helped avert Flydubai tragedy</a><h2>The identity: Who is the alleged attacker?</h2>The alleged attacker was the first officer, or co-pilot, rostered on Flydubai flight FZ1073. Israeli officials have identified him as an Omani national, but his name has not been publicly released by Israel, Flydubai or Saudi authorities.Notably, Israeli media previously reported different nationalities, including Russian or Ukrainian.The co-pilot was arrested after the aircraft landed at Tabuk Airport and is being detained in Saudi Arabia, according to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.<h2>What happened inside the cockpit?</h2>According to reports, roughly two and a half hours into the flight, the co-pilot allegedly stabbed Captain Smit Machchhar, leaving him seriously injured.The co-pilot then allegedly pushed the flight controls forward, sending the aircraft into a steep descent. Flight-tracking data indicated that the plane lost approximately 14,000 feet in less than 30 seconds, while other accounts put the altitude loss at around 17,000 feet within a minute.The injured captain reportedly managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing passengers to rush inside and eventually subdue the attacker.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-capt-smit-machchhar-indian-pilot-who-helped-avert-flydubai-disaster-1790792934749">Who is Capt. Smit Machchhar, Indian pilot who helped avert Flydubai disaster?</a><h2>The motive: Why did the co-pilot attack the pilot?</h2>Passenger accounts suggest that the co-pilot appeared to be trying to disable the controls. At the time this report was published, the motive had not been established. However, speculations and accusations continue to circulate.Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has described the incident as an “attempted jihadist terror attack” and said the alleged attacker intended to crash the aircraft with its Israeli passengers.Israel's Foreign Ministry has called the incident an attempted terrorist attack against Israelis, the UAE and the Abraham Accords, while Israel and the UAE have said they intend to work together against extremist elements.Netanyahu offered a somewhat different preliminary description, saying the incident appeared to involve an extended suicide or sabotage attempt.&nbsp;Flydubai, however, has explicitly said the reasons and motives behind the cockpit altercation remain unknown and are subject to a formal investigation.<h2>How Captain Smit Machchhar helped save the plane</h2>Despite being stabbed multiple times, Machchhar mustered the strength to unlock the cockpit door. That gave passengers the opportunity to enter the flight deck and confront the co-pilot. Israeli passenger Yaniv, who was among those who entered the cockpit, said the alleged attacker was on the controls and appeared to be trying to damage them.After helping pull the man away from the controls, Yaniv returned to the cockpit when the aircraft was still descending sharply and pulled back on the flight controls. He said the plane began to level out before another pilot took over.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later praised Machchhar, describing his actions as an “amazing act of heroism”. The Indian pilot is now being treated at a Saudi hospital.<h2>The passengers who rushed into the cockpit</h2>Passengers also played a crucial role in the emergency. One passenger identified as Yaniv said he confronted the alleged attacker and placed him in a hold before pulling him away from the controls.Another passenger, Zvika Manes, said he and two other Israelis used corded headphones to restrain and tie up the co-pilot. Manes said the struggle took roughly 20 to 25 minutes.Yaniv said he managed to take control of the aircraft temporarily. When Netanyahu asked how he knew what to do, the passenger joked that he had watched Mayday, the television documentary series about aviation disasters.<h2>The Aftermath: What happened after the emergency landing?</h2>The aircraft diverted to Tabuk in northwestern Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. Flydubai said all passengers were safe, with media reports saying 166 of the 174 passengers were Israeli. The co-pilot was also reportedly injured by the time the aircraft landed.Israel has since said it plans to strengthen security checks on pilots operating flights into the country. An official in Netanyahu's office said authorities would seek to establish the identities of pilots flying into Israel and conduct additional security checks.&nbsp;

A Flydubai flight carrying 174 passengers plunged thousands of feet after its captain was allegedly attacked by the co-pilot. The aircraft eventually landed safely in Saudi Arabia, but major questions remain over the accused pilot and his motive. All we know.

A Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv was forced to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday (Sep 30) after the co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain in the cockpit, triggering a struggle for control of the aircraft. The Boeing 737, operating as flight FZ1073, reportedly descended sharply over Jordanian airspace before passengers and crew intervened. All 174 passengers were eventually brought to safety. The name of the hero pilot who has been credited with preventing what could've been a tragedy has been made public. Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar has been hailed as a "hero" by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. But who was the co-pilot behind the horrific stabbing and attempted plane crash? Here's all we know. Also read | ‘HERO’: PM Modi praises Indian pilot Smit Machchhar who helped avert Flydubai tragedy The identity: Who is the alleged attacker? The alleged attacker was the first officer, or co-pilot, rostered on Flydubai flight FZ1073. Israeli officials have identified him as an Omani national, but his name has not been publicly released by Israel, Flydubai or Saudi authorities. Notably, Israeli media previously reported different nationalities, including Russian or Ukrainian. The co-pilot was arrested after the aircraft landed at Tabuk Airport and is being detained in Saudi Arabia, according to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. What happened inside the cockpit? According to reports, roughly two and a half hours into the flight, the co-pilot allegedly stabbed Captain Smit Machchhar, leaving him seriously injured. The co-pilot then allegedly pushed the flight controls forward, sending the aircraft into a steep descent. Flight-tracking data indicated that the plane lost approximately 14,000 feet in less than 30 seconds, while other accounts put the altitude loss at around 17,000 feet within a minute. The injured captain reportedly managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing passengers to rush inside and eventually subdue the attacker. Also read | Who is Capt. Smit Machchhar, Indian pilot who helped avert Flydubai disaster? The motive: Why did the co-pilot attack the pilot? Passenger accounts suggest that the co-pilot appeared to be trying to disable the controls. At the time this report was published, the motive had not been established. However, speculations and accusations continue to circulate. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has described the incident as an “attempted jihadist terror attack” and said the alleged attacker intended to crash the aircraft with its Israeli passengers. Israel's Foreign Ministry has called the incident an attempted terrorist attack against Israelis, the UAE and the Abraham Accords, while Israel and the UAE have said they intend to work together against extremist elements. Netanyahu offered a somewhat different preliminary description, saying the incident appeared to involve an extended suicide or sabotage attempt. Flydubai, however, has explicitly said the reasons and motives behind the cockpit altercation remain unknown and are subject to a formal investigation. How Captain Smit Machchhar helped save the plane Despite being stabbed multiple times, Machchhar mustered the strength to unlock the cockpit door. That gave passengers the opportunity to enter the flight deck and confront the co-pilot. Israeli passenger Yaniv, who was among those who entered the cockpit, said the alleged attacker was on the controls and appeared to be trying to damage them. After helping pull the man away from the controls, Yaniv returned to the cockpit when the aircraft was still descending sharply and pulled back on the flight controls. He said the plane began to level out before another pilot took over. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later praised Machchhar, describing his actions as an “amazing act of heroism”. The Indian pilot is now being treated at a Saudi hospital. The passengers who rushed into the cockpit Passengers also played a crucial role in the emergency. One passenger identified as Yaniv said he confronted the alleged attacker and placed him in a hold before pulling him away from the controls. Another passenger, Zvika Manes, said he and two other Israelis used corded headphones to restrain and tie up the co-pilot. Manes said the struggle took roughly 20 to 25 minutes. Yaniv said he managed to take control of the aircraft temporarily. When Netanyahu asked how he knew what to do, the passenger joked that he had watched Mayday, the television documentary series about aviation disasters. The Aftermath: What happened after the emergency landing? The aircraft diverted to Tabuk in northwestern Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. Flydubai said all passengers were safe, with media reports saying 166 of the 174 passengers were Israeli. The co-pilot was also reportedly injured by the time the aircraft landed. Israel has since said it plans to strengthen security checks on pilots operating flights into the country. An official in Netanyahu's office said authorities would seek to establish the identities of pilots flying into Israel and conduct additional security checks.

A Flydubai flight carrying 174 passengers plunged thousands of feet after its captain was allegedly attacked by the co-pilot. The aircraft eventually landed safely in Saudi Arabia, but major questions remain over the accused pilot and his motive. All we know.

Flydubai cockpit attack: Who is the co-pilot accused of stabbing Smit Machchhar, trying to crash plane with 174 passengers onboard?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Oct 1) spoke to the wife and parents of Captain Smit Machchhar, who was attacked during the alleged crash attempt on flydubai flight, ANI reported. Machchhar helped save hundreds of lives aboard a flydubai flight to Tel Aviv. PM Modi applauded his bravery, courage and presence of mind and backed Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's statement saying that he prevented “another 9/11.” Earlier, in a post on X, the PM called him ‘hero’ of the country. Machchhar is currently in the ICU at a hospital in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where he is undergoing treatment for serious injuries.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Indian PM Modi says Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar prevented another 9/11, he makes us &quot;proud&quot;; He demonstrated remarkable &quot;patience, presence of mind, and courage&quot; in the Fly Dubai incident; &amp; India &quot;prays&quot; for him. <a href="https://t.co/b0UKyUdqUS">pic.twitter.com/b0UKyUdqUS</a>&mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://x.com/sidhant/status/2105541882592063800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

According to ANI, PM Modi praised Machchhar's courage and presence of mind and stressed that Indian missions were providing all possible assistance to the passengers and crew. PM Modi confirmed that he spoke to Machchhar's parents and wife while addressing an event marking the centenary of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). He said that they urged the nation to pray for the pilot's recovery. "India’s captain Smit used his presence of mind and courage. Today Israel PM also said one Indian helped prevent a 9/11. We are proud of Captain Smit. I spoke to his parents and wife. He is being treated. The whole world is proud of him. I urge the nation to pray for Smit’s quick recovery," PM Modi said.&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flydubai-cockpit-attack-israeli-plumber-dentist-who-helped-indian-pilot-1790831196665"> Flydubai cockpit attack: Israeli plumber, dentist who helped Indian pilot</a>&nbsp;Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis praised Captain Smit Machchhar as a "true HERO", saying the pilot had made Mumbai and the country proud. Fadnavis also praised the passengers who quickly joined forces to deal with the situation and help ensure everyone's safety. "Salute ! Super proud of our Mumbai’s son Captain Smit Machchhar, a true HERO — who saved hundreds of lives, in such an exceptional and extraordinary manner ! Despite being ghastly injured, the presence of mind and courage showed by Smit during flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, is exemplary," he said in a post on X.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said that the state and the entire nation is proud of the pilot. "The indomitable courage and valour displayed by Captain Smit Machchhar in the skies is truly unimaginable. Despite being seriously injured, he fought back against the attacker, averting a major tragedy and saving the lives of 174 passengers," Patel said in a post on X. Patel said Machchhar is a "proud Indian" and described him as a brave son of Gujarati origin who had made the country proud on the global stage. "He is a proud Indian, and Gujarati blood flows in his veins — a true reflection of our resilience and courage. This brave son of Gujarati origin has made the entire country proud on the global stage," he said. Patel also said, "I salute his extraordinary heroism and pray for his speedy and complete recovery. Jai Hind! Jay Jay Garvi Gujarat!"&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flydubai-cockpit-attack-airline-suspends-all-israel-flights-amid-investigation-1790826373784">Flydubai cockpit attack: Airline suspends all Israel flights amid investigation</a><h2>What happened?</h2>Flydubai flight FZ1073 which was flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv with roughly 150 to 180 mostly Israeli passengers, experienced a violent, rapid dive, plunging between 14,000 and 17,000 feet in under two minutes. This happened when Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar was stabbed by his co-pilot who allegedly attempted to crash the plane. As the aircraft plunged, the aircraft's cockpit transponder sent code 7500, the universal aviation signal for an unlawful interference or hijacking. This alerted neighboring air traffic sectors, including Jordan and Saudi Arabia, that the aircraft’s command systems were actively compromised. Despite suffering injuries, Indian pilot managed to unlock the cockpit door. A passenger identified as Yaniv Hayun, alongside others, overpowered and restrained the co-pilot. A reserve crew consisting of a second pair of flydubai pilots who happened to be traveling aboard the flight took control of the aircraft. They safely diverted and landed the plane at Tabuk Regional Airport (TUU) in Saudi Arabia.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Captain Smit Machchhar’s wife and parents after the Indian pilot was seriously injured in the Flydubai cockpit attack. Modi praised his courage and presence of mind and urged the nation to pray for his recovery. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Oct 1) spoke to the wife and parents of Captain Smit Machchhar, who was attacked during the alleged crash attempt on flydubai flight, ANI reported. Machchhar helped save hundreds of lives aboard a flydubai flight to Tel Aviv. PM Modi applauded his bravery, courage and presence of mind and backed Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu's statement saying that he prevented “another 9/11.” Earlier, in a post on X, the PM called him ‘hero’ of the country. Machchhar is currently in the ICU at a hospital in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where he is undergoing treatment for serious injuries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Captain Smit Machchhar’s wife and parents after the Indian pilot was seriously injured in the Flydubai cockpit attack. Modi praised his courage and presence of mind and urged the nation to pray for his recovery.&nbsp;

‘Prevented another 9/11’: PM Modi speaks to Indian pilot Smit Machchhar’s family after Flydubai attack

Israel’s ambassador to India has hailed Captain Smit Machchhar as a symbol of ordinary people standing together against terrorism after the Indian pilot, stabbed in the cockpit of a Flydubai jet, helped save more than 170 lives. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal in the hours after flydubai Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, Ambassador Reuven Azar said the captain’s actions had changed the outcome of what Israeli officials describe as an apparent attempt to crash the aircraft. The co-pilot, reported to be an Omani national, allegedly attacked Machchhar with a knife as the Boeing 737 MAX flew towards Israel.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Without the resourcefulness and courage, the bravery of the captain, I think that the result would be very different,” Azar said. “We don’t even want to think what could happen without his resolve.” He called the pilot’s conduct “an example"&nbsp;and thanked him for opening the door so that “the Israeli passengers could enter [and] neutralise the attacker.” Despite serious wounds, Machchhar fought back and opened the cockpit door. Israeli passengers and Emirati crew then overpowered the attacker. Off-duty pilots among those on board helped stabilise the aircraft. All passengers and crew survived.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flydubai-cockpit-attack-israeli-plumber-dentist-who-helped-indian-pilot-1790831196665">Flydubai cockpit attack: Israeli plumber, dentist who helped Indian pilot</a>&nbsp;World leaders quickly joined the praise. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu saluted Machchhar’s “extraordinary bravery". Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called him a hero whose “valor helped save hundreds of lives.” US President Donald Trump also described him as a hero. Azar noted that Israel’s president and parliament speaker, and India’s president, had likewise lauded the Indian pilot's role.&nbsp;The ambassador framed the episode as more than a government story. The flight, he said, illustrated daily people-to-people links built since the Abraham Accords: frequent flights between the UAE and Israel, and cooperation that “terrorists” had tried to derail. “It shows that it’s not just about the government. It’s about people,” he said. An Indian captain, Emirati crew and Israeli passengers had acted together, "united against terrorism.”Investigators in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Israel have not yet publicly confirmed the motive. Azar said the attack struck “at the heart of the Abraham Accords” and the regional cooperation of recent years.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flydubai-cockpit-attack-all-we-know-about-co-pilot-accused-of-stabbing-smit-machchhar-trying-to-crash-plane-with-174-passengers-onboard-1790825078610">174 lives at risk: Who is the co-pilot accused of attacking Flydubai captain?</a>&nbsp;The captain was reported stable and receiving treatment from medical teams that had earlier treated Israelis. “We admire the captain and we are all praying together for his recovery,” Azar said. Israeli leaders, he added, “never forget people that come to our assistance in time of need” and want to thank the family and honour the pilot. Machchhar, a former SpiceJet commander who joined flydubai in 2022, has more than 13 years and nearly 9,750 hours on Boeing 737s. He remains in hospital in Tabuk. The co-pilot is in custody. The investigation continues.

Israel’s Ambassador to India Reuven Azar hailed Captain Smit Machchhar after the Indian pilot was stabbed during a Flydubai cockpit attack but managed to open the door, allowing Israeli passengers and Emirati crew to subdue the attacker. Azar said the pilot’s courage changed the outcome.

Israel’s ambassador to India has hailed Captain Smit Machchhar as a symbol of ordinary people standing together against terrorism after the Indian pilot, stabbed in the cockpit of a Flydubai jet, helped save more than 170 lives. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal in the hours after flydubai Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, Ambassador Reuven Azar said the captain’s actions had changed the outcome of what Israeli officials describe as an apparent attempt to crash the aircraft. The co-pilot, reported to be an Omani national, allegedly attacked Machchhar with a knife as the Boeing 737 MAX flew towards Israel. “Without the resourcefulness and courage, the bravery of the captain, I think that the result would be very different,” Azar said. “We don’t even want to think what could happen without his resolve.” He called the pilot’s conduct “an example" and thanked him for opening the door so that “the Israeli passengers could enter [and] neutralise the attacker.” Despite serious wounds, Machchhar fought back and opened the cockpit door. Israeli passengers and Emirati crew then overpowered the attacker. Off-duty pilots among those on board helped stabilise the aircraft. All passengers and crew survived. Also Read: Flydubai cockpit attack: Israeli plumber, dentist who helped Indian pilot World leaders quickly joined the praise. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu saluted Machchhar’s “extraordinary bravery". Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called him a hero whose “valor helped save hundreds of lives.” US President Donald Trump also described him as a hero. Azar noted that Israel’s president and parliament speaker, and India’s president, had likewise lauded the Indian pilot's role. The ambassador framed the episode as more than a government story. The flight, he said, illustrated daily people-to-people links built since the Abraham Accords: frequent flights between the UAE and Israel, and cooperation that “terrorists” had tried to derail. “It shows that it’s not just about the government. It’s about people,” he said. An Indian captain, Emirati crew and Israeli passengers had acted together, "united against terrorism.” Investigators in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Israel have not yet publicly confirmed the motive. Azar said the attack struck “at the heart of the Abraham Accords” and the regional cooperation of recent years. Also Read: 174 lives at risk: Who is the co-pilot accused of attacking Flydubai captain? The captain was reported stable and receiving treatment from medical teams that had earlier treated Israelis. “We admire the captain and we are all praying together for his recovery,” Azar said. Israeli leaders, he added, “never forget people that come to our assistance in time of need” and want to thank the family and honour the pilot. Machchhar, a former SpiceJet commander who joined flydubai in 2022, has more than 13 years and nearly 9,750 hours on Boeing 737s. He remains in hospital in Tabuk. The co-pilot is in custody. The investigation continues.

Israel’s Ambassador to India Reuven Azar hailed Captain Smit Machchhar after the Indian pilot was stabbed during a Flydubai cockpit attack but managed to open the door, allowing Israeli passengers and Emirati crew to subdue the attacker. Azar said the pilot’s courage changed the outcome.

Israel Ambassador Azar hails Indian pilot as 'hero against terrorism'; terms attack at the 'heart of the Abraham Accords'

Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar became a hero after saving lives despite being attacked during the Flydubai incident. However, there were two other people - a dentist and a plumber - who helped the pilot Machchhar in saving the flight and passengers. DThe plumber who helped save the flight was Yaniv Hayoun and the dentist was Dr. Shota Musayev. Both are Israeli citizens who rushed into action after the co-pilot brutally attacked Machchhar. Hayoun met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv shortly after the survivors of Flydubai flight FZ1073 were flown back to Israel. He narrated the incident in details.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hero-indian-captain-stops-cockpit-attack-on-tel-aviv-bound-flydubai-jet-1790785514453">Hero Indian captain stops cockpit attack on Tel Aviv-bound Flydubai jet</a><h2>What they said?</h2>Machchhar was lying on the floor after being attacked but he somehow managed to click the release to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to gain entry. Soon after several passengers were able to enter the cockpit to help subdue the attacker. The passengers including the plumber and the dentist then overpowered the attacker who was the co-pilot and saved 174 passengers on board. Machchhar, an Indian citizen from Mumbai, is being treated in a hospital in Saudi Arabia’s north-western city of Tabuk.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-happened-on-flydubai-flight-to-israel-passenger-recounts-chilling-details-1790775515850">What happened on Flydubai flight to Israel? Passenger recounts chilling details</a>&nbsp;<blockquote>Narrating the incident, Hayoun said that while some people attempted handling the injured pilot, few tried overpowering the attacker. He tried to gain control of the plane. “I jumped back, grabbed the controls, and started pulling back the handles. Then other crew members took over.”</blockquote>Dr Shota Musaev, a dentist on board, was also among those who ran to the cockpit. “He was covered in cuts – his head, his hands – they were practically sliced open, almost severed in two … he had lost a lot of blood and was in bad shape. I think that if we had waited even a few more moments, we would have lost him; his blood pressure had plummeted, he suddenly lost consciousness, and there was blood everywhere,” he told CNN. He also revealed that the attacker was tied using "headphone cords and plastic zipties.”&nbsp;Among those who intervened was an off-duty British pilot, according to a passenger, Almog Itali, who said the plane was carrying a pair of relief pilots who were meant to fly the next flight. “The relief pilots are European, one of them British, who entered [the cockpit] and pulled the aircraft up, pulled the yoke, stabilised the plane and landed us in Saudi Arabia,” Itali said in a clip posted by the BBC.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar was injured after being attacked by the Flydubai co-pilot, but managed to unlock the cockpit door. Israeli passengers Yaniv Hayoun, a plumber, and Dr Shota Musayev, a dentist, then helped subdue the attacker as relief pilots stabilised the aircraft.

Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar became a hero after saving lives despite being attacked during the Flydubai incident. However, there were two other people - a dentist and a plumber - who helped the pilot Machchhar in saving the flight and passengers. DThe plumber who helped save the flight was Yaniv Hayoun and the dentist was Dr. Shota Musayev. Both are Israeli citizens who rushed into action after the co-pilot brutally attacked Machchhar. Hayoun met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv shortly after the survivors of Flydubai flight FZ1073 were flown back to Israel. He narrated the incident in details. Also Read: Hero Indian captain stops cockpit attack on Tel Aviv-bound Flydubai jet What they said? Machchhar was lying on the floor after being attacked but he somehow managed to click the release to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to gain entry. Soon after several passengers were able to enter the cockpit to help subdue the attacker. The passengers including the plumber and the dentist then overpowered the attacker who was the co-pilot and saved 174 passengers on board. Machchhar, an Indian citizen from Mumbai, is being treated in a hospital in Saudi Arabia’s north-western city of Tabuk. Also Read: What happened on Flydubai flight to Israel? Passenger recounts chilling details Narrating the incident, Hayoun said that while some people attempted handling the injured pilot, few tried overpowering the attacker. He tried to gain control of the plane. “I jumped back, grabbed the controls, and started pulling back the handles. Then other crew members took over.” Dr Shota Musaev, a dentist on board, was also among those who ran to the cockpit. “He was covered in cuts – his head, his hands – they were practically sliced open, almost severed in two … he had lost a lot of blood and was in bad shape. I think that if we had waited even a few more moments, we would have lost him; his blood pressure had plummeted, he suddenly lost consciousness, and there was blood everywhere,” he told CNN. He also revealed that the attacker was tied using "headphone cords and plastic zipties.” Among those who intervened was an off-duty British pilot, according to a passenger, Almog Itali, who said the plane was carrying a pair of relief pilots who were meant to fly the next flight. “The relief pilots are European, one of them British, who entered [the cockpit] and pulled the aircraft up, pulled the yoke, stabilised the plane and landed us in Saudi Arabia,” Itali said in a clip posted by the BBC.

Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar was injured after being attacked by the Flydubai co-pilot, but managed to unlock the cockpit door. Israeli passengers Yaniv Hayoun, a plumber, and Dr Shota Musayev, a dentist, then helped subdue the attacker as relief pilots stabilised the aircraft.

Flydubai cockpit attack: Israeli plumber, dentist who helped Indian pilot

After the security incident involving flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30, flydubai on Wednesday said it suspended all flights to and from Israel. The suspension made in coordination with the relevant authorities will remain in place until the investigation is not completed. The decision will be reviewed by the airline “as more information becomes available”, said a flydubai spokesperson.&nbsp;“The safety and wellbeing of our passengers, crew and operations remain our highest priority," the spokesperson said and added, “This temporary suspension will allow the relevant authorities to continue their work and establish all the facts surrounding the incident.”&nbsp;The carrier said it is fully supporting the investigation and is in close coordination with government authorities, regulators and airport stakeholders in this regard.&nbsp;“We apologise to passengers whose travel plans have been affected and are working to provide support and alternative arrangements where possible,” the spokesperson said.&nbsp;<h2>What happened on the flydubai flight to Tel Aviv</h2>&nbsp;On September 30, the Flydubai flight FZ1073 was on its way to Israeli capital Tel Aviv from Dubai with roughly 150 to 180 passengers when it experienced a violent, rapid dive, plunging between 14,000 and 17,000 feet in under two minutes. This happened when Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar was stabbed by his co-pilot who allegedly attempted to crash the plane.&nbsp;As the aircraft plunged, flydubai Flight FZ1073, the aircraft's cockpit transponder sent code 7500, the universal aviation signal for an unlawful interference or hijacking. This alerted neighboring air traffic sectors, including Jordan and Saudi Arabia, that the aircraft’s command systems were actively compromised. Despite suffering injuries, Indian pilot managed to unlock the cockpit door.&nbsp;A passenger identified as Yaniv Hayun, alongside others, overpowered and restrained the co-pilot. A reserve crew consisting of a second pair of flydubai pilots who happened to be traveling aboard the flight took control of the aircraft. They safely diverted and landed the plane at Tabuk Regional Airport (TUU) in Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

The carrier said it is fully supporting the investigation and is in close coordination with government authorities, regulators and airport stakeholders in this regard.

After the security incident involving flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30, flydubai on Wednesday said it suspended all flights to and from Israel. The suspension made in coordination with the relevant authorities will remain in place until the investigation is not completed. The decision will be reviewed by the airline “as more information becomes available”, said a flydubai spokesperson. “The safety and wellbeing of our passengers, crew and operations remain our highest priority," the spokesperson said and added, “This temporary suspension will allow the relevant authorities to continue their work and establish all the facts surrounding the incident.” The carrier said it is fully supporting the investigation and is in close coordination with government authorities, regulators and airport stakeholders in this regard. “We apologise to passengers whose travel plans have been affected and are working to provide support and alternative arrangements where possible,” the spokesperson said. What happened on the flydubai flight to Tel Aviv On September 30, the Flydubai flight FZ1073 was on its way to Israeli capital Tel Aviv from Dubai with roughly 150 to 180 passengers when it experienced a violent, rapid dive, plunging between 14,000 and 17,000 feet in under two minutes. This happened when Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar was stabbed by his co-pilot who allegedly attempted to crash the plane. As the aircraft plunged, flydubai Flight FZ1073, the aircraft's cockpit transponder sent code 7500, the universal aviation signal for an unlawful interference or hijacking. This alerted neighboring air traffic sectors, including Jordan and Saudi Arabia, that the aircraft’s command systems were actively compromised. Despite suffering injuries, Indian pilot managed to unlock the cockpit door. A passenger identified as Yaniv Hayun, alongside others, overpowered and restrained the co-pilot. A reserve crew consisting of a second pair of flydubai pilots who happened to be traveling aboard the flight took control of the aircraft. They safely diverted and landed the plane at Tabuk Regional Airport (TUU) in Saudi Arabia.

The carrier said it is fully supporting the investigation and is in close coordination with government authorities, regulators and airport stakeholders in this regard.

Flydubai cockpit attack: Airline suspends all Israel flights amid investigation

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in his latest statement, did not rule our Iranian involvement in the Flydubai incident but also did not confirm it. It said that he doesn’t know “the exact background” of the flydubai copilot who attacked the captain but added that the copilot "obviously hated Israelis.”&nbsp;“That is fanaticism and hatred of an incalculable level,” Netanyahu said. About Iranian involvement in the attack, Netanyahu said, “It’s too early to say.” “The attacking pilot is now being investigated Saudi Arabia. I think he’ll be taken to the Emirates where he comes from — or at least where he flew off from. We’ll be following and also possibly participating in this investigation.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hero-indian-captain-stops-cockpit-attack-on-tel-aviv-bound-flydubai-jet-1790785514453">Hero Indian captain stops cockpit attack on Tel Aviv-bound Flydubai jet</a>&nbsp;Earlier on Sep 30, Netanyahu called it “extremely serious security incident.” “This morning there was an extremely serious security incident. Almost all of the passengers on the flight were Israelis,” he said in his first reaction after the incident. Netanyahu added that as the plane drew close to Israel, “one of the pilots stabbed the other pilot, and all indications show that he tried to crash the plane along with its passengers.” The PM said that he spoke to an Israeli passenger. “He told me that the plane went into a dive. He told me that somehow, he managed to break into the cockpit with one of the crew members, and together they managed to stop the pilot while he was attempting to damage the plane’s systems.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flydubai-passengers-land-in-tel-aviv-on-second-flight-after-hijack-scare-1790787192601">Flydubai passengers land in Tel Aviv after hijack scare, emergency landing in Saudi</a><h2>What happened?</h2>Flydubai flight FZ1073 which was flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv with roughly 150 to 180 mostly Israeli passengers, experienced a violent, rapid dive, plunging between 14,000 and 17,000 feet in under two minutes. This happened when Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar was stabbed by his co-pilot who allegedly attempted to crash the plane. As the aircraft plunged, the aircraft's cockpit transponder sent code 7500, the universal aviation signal for an unlawful interference or hijacking. This alerted neighboring air traffic sectors, including Jordan and Saudi Arabia, that the aircraft’s command systems were actively compromised. Despite suffering injuries, Indian pilot managed to unlock the cockpit door. A passenger identified as Yaniv Hayun, alongside others, overpowered and restrained the co-pilot. A reserve crew consisting of a second pair of flydubai pilots who happened to be traveling aboard the flight took control of the aircraft. They safely diverted and landed the plane at Tabuk Regional Airport (TUU) in Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the Flydubai co-pilot who allegedly stabbed Indian pilot Smit Machchhar appeared to have tried to crash the plane and “obviously hated Israelis”. Netanyahu said it was too early to determine whether Iran was involved 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in his latest statement, did not rule our Iranian involvement in the Flydubai incident but also did not confirm it. It said that he doesn’t know “the exact background” of the flydubai copilot who attacked the captain but added that the copilot "obviously hated Israelis.” “That is fanaticism and hatred of an incalculable level,” Netanyahu said. About Iranian involvement in the attack, Netanyahu said, “It’s too early to say.” “The attacking pilot is now being investigated Saudi Arabia. I think he’ll be taken to the Emirates where he comes from — or at least where he flew off from. We’ll be following and also possibly participating in this investigation.” Also Read: Hero Indian captain stops cockpit attack on Tel Aviv-bound Flydubai jet Earlier on Sep 30, Netanyahu called it “extremely serious security incident.” “This morning there was an extremely serious security incident. Almost all of the passengers on the flight were Israelis,” he said in his first reaction after the incident. Netanyahu added that as the plane drew close to Israel, “one of the pilots stabbed the other pilot, and all indications show that he tried to crash the plane along with its passengers.” The PM said that he spoke to an Israeli passenger. “He told me that the plane went into a dive. He told me that somehow, he managed to break into the cockpit with one of the crew members, and together they managed to stop the pilot while he was attempting to damage the plane’s systems.” Also Read: Flydubai passengers land in Tel Aviv after hijack scare, emergency landing in Saudi What happened? Flydubai flight FZ1073 which was flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv with roughly 150 to 180 mostly Israeli passengers, experienced a violent, rapid dive, plunging between 14,000 and 17,000 feet in under two minutes. This happened when Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar was stabbed by his co-pilot who allegedly attempted to crash the plane. As the aircraft plunged, the aircraft's cockpit transponder sent code 7500, the universal aviation signal for an unlawful interference or hijacking. This alerted neighboring air traffic sectors, including Jordan and Saudi Arabia, that the aircraft’s command systems were actively compromised. Despite suffering injuries, Indian pilot managed to unlock the cockpit door. A passenger identified as Yaniv Hayun, alongside others, overpowered and restrained the co-pilot. A reserve crew consisting of a second pair of flydubai pilots who happened to be traveling aboard the flight took control of the aircraft. They safely diverted and landed the plane at Tabuk Regional Airport (TUU) in Saudi Arabia.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the Flydubai co-pilot who allegedly stabbed Indian pilot Smit Machchhar appeared to have tried to crash the plane and “obviously hated Israelis”. Netanyahu said it was too early to determine whether Iran was involved&nbsp;

'Obviously hated Israelis': Netanyahu doesn't rule out Iran link in Flydubai attack, but calls it 'too early'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Oct 1) hailed Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar as a “HERO” after he was seriously injured during a mid-air cockpit attack on a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, an incident that forced the aircraft to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. The flight, carrying 174 people, was diverted to Tabuk on Wednesday after the co-pilot allegedly stabbed Machchhar during the journey and was accused by Israeli officials of attempting to crash the aircraft. The co-pilot was overpowered after passengers and crew intervened, while additional Flydubai pilots on board took control and landed the aircraft safely. The motive behind the co-pilot's actions remains under investigation. Previously, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said that the co-pilot of the Dubai-Tel Aviv flight had been trying to crash it and kill all its passengers, but Captain Machchhar "prevented a major disaster".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-terrorist-job-trump-reacts-to-flydubai-cockpit-attack-hails-indian-pilot-what-he-said-1790818709328">Trump reacts to Flydubai cockpit attack, hails Indian pilot</a>

<h2>‘India is proud of Captain Machchhar’</h2>In a post on X, Modi praised Machchhar for his actions despite suffering serious injuries. “Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO,” the prime minister wrote. “In the face of the gravest danger and despite being seriously injured, he showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others,” Modi said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO. In the face of the gravest danger and despite being seriously injured, he showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others. His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy. India is proud of…&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://x.com/narendramodi/status/2105469867390554194?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy,” he added, while wishing the pilot a speedy recovery and good health. The Indian pilot has been receiving treatment at a hospital in Saudi Arabia. He was identified as an Indian national after the incident.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-a-nation-of-lions-israeli-man-who-stormed-into-cockpit-held-attacker-pilot-in-chokehold-tells-netanyahu-1790793966746">‘A true hero of extraordinary bravery,’ Netanyahu praises attacked Indian pilot</a><h2>What happened aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073?</h2>According to passengers and Israeli officials, the aircraft experienced a sudden and severe descent as the confrontation unfolded in the cockpit. Reuters reported that the plane dropped nearly 14,000 feet in about 30 seconds before passengers and crew managed to intervene. Machchhar, despite being wounded, was able to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers to enter and subdue the attacker. Off-duty Flydubai pilots travelling as passengers then helped take control of the aircraft.Netanyahu's spokesperson later said the wounded captain used “the last moments of his energy” to open the cockpit door, enabling passengers to reach the flight deck.The aircraft subsequently landed safely at Tabuk Airport in northwestern Saudi Arabia. The passengers were later flown back to Israel. &nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has hailed Indian Flydubai captain Smit Machchhar as a “hero” after a violent cockpit confrontation forced an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu has also praised the pilot’s actions.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Oct 1) hailed Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar as a “HERO” after he was seriously injured during a mid-air cockpit attack on a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, an incident that forced the aircraft to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. The flight, carrying 174 people, was diverted to Tabuk on Wednesday after the co-pilot allegedly stabbed Machchhar during the journey and was accused by Israeli officials of attempting to crash the aircraft. The co-pilot was overpowered after passengers and crew intervened, while additional Flydubai pilots on board took control and landed the aircraft safely. The motive behind the co-pilot's actions remains under investigation. Previously, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said that the co-pilot of the Dubai-Tel Aviv flight had been trying to crash it and kill all its passengers, but Captain Machchhar "prevented a major disaster". Also read | Trump reacts to Flydubai cockpit attack, hails Indian pilot

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has hailed Indian Flydubai captain Smit Machchhar as a “hero” after a violent cockpit confrontation forced an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu has also praised the pilot’s actions.

‘HERO’: PM Modi praises Indian pilot Smit Machchhar who helped avert Flydubai tragedy