The United Arab Emirates has launched an investigation into a violent cockpit incident that forced a Flydubai flight bound for Israel to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
Flight FZ1073 was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on Wednesday when one pilot allegedly stabbed the other. The aircraft then entered a steep descent. Passengers and crew intervened after the injured captain managed to open the cockpit door.
The Boeing 737 eventually landed safely at Tabuk Airport in northwestern Saudi Arabia. The aircraft was carrying 174 people. Most passengers were Israeli. No passenger deaths were reported.
UAE Attorney General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi ordered a specialist investigation into the incident. Investigators will examine the circumstances, the motive and whether the episode was connected to terrorist activity, prior planning or outside direction. UAE authorities said the aircraft’s registration gives them jurisdiction over the case.
The possible terrorist link has not been established. Investigators are still working to determine what triggered the cockpit attack. Israeli officials have described the incident as a possible attempted terrorist attack. However, the motive remains under investigation.
The injured Indian captain, Smit Machchhar, has been praised for helping prevent a potential disaster. Passengers who entered the cockpit also helped restrain the alleged attacker and stabilize the aircraft.
Israel has said it will participate in the investigation. Saudi authorities are also involved because the aircraft landed at Tabuk. Flydubai has suspended flights to Israel while investigations continue.
