Why four pilots were aboard flydubai flight when the attempted hijacking began - exclusive
The additional pilots were added to the flight because possible regional rerouting could extend the journey and push the original crew beyond permitted duty hours.
On Wednesday, flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv had a unique crew of four pilots on board. This was due to a precautionary staffing decision, as the possibility of regional rerouting could have extended the flight duration and pushed the original crew beyond their allowed duty hours. Israeli officials confirmed that the co-pilot stabbed the captain and attempted to crash the aircraft, but passengers and crew intervened, preventing a major disaster.
Two additional pilots were on the flight to provide backup in case of a sudden rerouting, which could have pushed the crew beyond their permitted duty hours. Once the attack unfolded, these extra pilots became crucial in taking control of the aircraft and safely landing it in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. An Israeli passenger reported that the two additional pilots, who were farther back in the cabin, had to be moved to the front and take control of the plane after it began losing altitude.
The passengers managed to restrain the alleged attacker, with one of the additional pilots eventually taking control of the aircraft. Israeli officials described the incident as a deliberate terror attack, with Defense Minister Israel Katz calling it an "attempted jihadist terror attack." The passengers and crew played a crucial role in preventing a major disaster, highlighting flydubai's unique role in serving the Israel route despite regional disruptions.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
