Flydubai Hijack Scare: Israel Claims Omani Pilot Attempted Terror Attack On Flight To Tel Aviv

New details have emerged in the flydubai FZ1073 hijack scare involving a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv that was diverted to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.

According to a report by The Jerusalem Post, an Israeli official claimed that one of the pilots attempted to take control of the aircraft and allegedly intended to crash it, describing the incident as a possible deliberate act of terror. The report said the pilot allegedly attacked the other pilot before additional crew members, assisted by Israeli passengers, managed to restrain him.

The aircraft was carrying more than 100 Israeli passengers when the incident unfolded.

Aircraft reportedly plunged 4,000 metres

The Jerusalem Post reported that the aircraft suddenly descended by around 4,000 metres during the confrontation. Flight-tracking data also showed a sharp drop in altitude before the emergency signals were transmitted.

The flight initially broadcast squawk code 7700, indicating a general emergency, before switching to 7500, the international code used to indicate unlawful interference or a suspected hijacking. The aircraft later reverted to 7700.

Israeli jets scrambled after hijack alert

The emergency transmission prompted Israeli authorities to scramble fighter jets as they assessed the possibility of a hijacking.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also convened an emergency security meeting with senior defence officials. His office said the situation was under control and that steps were being taken to ensure the safe return of the Israeli passengers.

Flight lands safely in Tabuk

The Flydubai aircraft was diverted to Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Airport in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. The airline said all passengers and crew were safe and accounted for.

Flydubai is expected to arrange another aircraft to transport the stranded passengers back to Tel Aviv.