An Omani co-pilot working for flydubai allegedly planned to hijack a passenger aircraft and crash it into Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport in a suicide attack, the United Arab Emirates’ attorney general announced on Friday, October 9, 2026.
The 29-year-old suspect reportedly confessed to planning and carrying out the operation alone. However, prosecutors are continuing their investigation to verify his account and determine whether other individuals were involved.
Co-Pilot Allegedly Attacked Captain During Flight
The incident occurred on September 30 aboard flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. According to investigators, the co-pilot attacked the captain with an emergency axe inside the cockpit, striking him on the head.
A pilot travelling as a passenger on the aircraft intervened after noticing unusual movements around the cockpit door. With assistance from a cabin crew member and several passengers, he restrained the suspect and helped the injured captain.
The reserve pilots then regained control of the aircraft and diverted it to Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. The incident prompted an investigation into the alleged attempted hijacking and the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Investigation Examines Suspect’s Background
Investigators said the suspect’s extremist views reportedly began developing in 2017 while he was studying in Australia. Authorities also alleged that he drew inspiration from the September 11, 2001, attacks and consumed online material promoting extremist organisations.
According to the investigation, the suspect had taken two earlier flights to Tel Aviv to familiarise himself with the route and airport before the alleged attack. He previously worked for Oman Air and Royal Air Maroc before joining flydubai in January 2026.
Authorities said the suspect had passed professional and security checks during recruitment, with no recorded indications of extremist beliefs or plans for an attack. Nevertheless, prosecutors are examining evidence, technical reports and recordings while investigating possible accomplices.
The UAE authorities said they would release further findings as the investigation progresses.
For the latest updates, visit and follow The Truth International website (www.thetruthinternational.com) and subscribe to the YouTube Channel.
