Israel to question co-pilot of flydubai flight

Israeli officials are set to question the co-pilot of a flydubai flight that narrowly avoided a crash mid-flight, according to a source with knowledge of the investigation. The incident occurred on Wednesday when the co-pilot allegedly stabbed the captain, attempting to crash the plane carrying 174 passengers and crew. Passengers and crew members subdued the co-pilot, and a reserve pilot landed the plane safely at Tabuk airport in Saudi Arabia.

The co-pilot was subsequently transferred to the UAE, where Israeli authorities are expected to question him. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that they are investigating whether the co-pilot acted under direction, warning that the perpetrator would face severe consequences. The motive for the co-pilot's actions has not been established yet, although Netanyahu mentioned that the co-pilot had undergone radical Islamist indoctrination and appeared suicidal.

The captain, Indian national Smit Machchhar, was hailed as a hero for his quick actions. The incident has heightened security concerns in Israel, particularly ahead of the upcoming parliamentary election, which took place on October 27, 2023.