Flydubai hijacker likely targeted Israel's main airport, investigators believe

Investigators are examining an alleged plot by a Flydubai co-pilot, identified as Hamam al-Hammami, to hijack and crash a plane into Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion International Airport or other prominent targets. The incident occurred on September 30, 2026, aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Reports suggest al-Hammami, an Omani national, allegedly attacked Captain Smit Machchhar with a crash axe during the flight and attempted to take control of the aircraft.

Authorities believe al-Hammami’s plans for the attack spanned several months, potentially predating his employment with Flydubai, as he allegedly sought positions with airlines that served Israeli routes. Evidence suggests an earlier attempt was postponed, possibly due to a friend being on the crew. During the actual incident, the aircraft experienced a rapid loss of altitude, plunging thousands of feet.

Despite sustaining serious injuries, Captain Machchhar managed to fight back and open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and off-duty Flydubai crew members to intervene. They successfully subdued al-Hammami and helped bring the plane under control, leading to an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Investigations into the co-pilot's motives, including potential links to radicalization, and possible security failures are ongoing, involving authorities from multiple countries including the UAE, Israel, and Australia.