Israel vows to get to 'root' of flydubai attack, UAE launches investigation
By Maayan Lubell and Eman Abouhassira JERUSALEM/DUBAI, Oct 1 (Reuters) - Questions loomed on Thursday over the motives and background of a co-pilot who stabbed the captain of apassenger jet on its way to Israel, in what Israeli officials have said was an apparent attempt to crash the plane with more than 170 people on board.
Flydubai has halted flights to and from Israel following a mid-air security incident on flight FZ 1073, which diverted to Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia. The altercation on the flight deck led to the plane descending rapidly and transmitting emergency signals. Crew members secured the aircraft, and it landed safely at Tabuk. UAE authorities, along with Flydubai and Emirates, are investigating the incident, with the Attorney General ordering a team to gather information and determine if terrorism was involved.
Passengers are advised to contact their travel agents or the airline for updates. Indian pilot Smit Machchhar, who was stabbed during the incident, is receiving medical care in Saudi Arabia and has been praised by Indian and Israeli leaders for his bravery.
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- Flydubai suspends Israel flights after mid-air security incident thenationalnews.com
- El Al to operate rescue flights from Dubai to Israel; first flight expected to depart tomorrow israelnationalnews.com
- Attacker's motive remain unknown after FlyDubai flight to Israel escapes disaster france24.com
- UAE probes possible 'terror' incident on flight to Israel al-monitor.com
- UAE thanks Saudi Arabia for cooperation in Flydubai incident, launches investigation english.ajel.sa
