UAE probes possible terror link in flydubai incident

The United Arab Emirates is probing a potential terrorist connection to a suspected attempt by a co-pilot to crash a flydubai passenger jet en route to Israel. On Wednesday, the drama unfolded as the aircraft, flight FZ1073, made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after the wounded captain unlocked the cockpit door, enabling passengers to subdue the attacker.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the passengers upon their arrival in Tel Aviv, praising them as heroes. The incident began when the plane suddenly plummeted, losing nearly 14,000 feet of altitude in under 30 seconds over Saudi Arabia. Israeli authorities claim the co-pilot acted alone, though mental health issues have not been ruled out.

Flydubai, the airline operating the flight, suspended its flights to Israel during the investigation and cautioned against premature speculation. Both pilots were hospitalized following the incident. The UAE's chief prosecutor launched an investigation to determine the circumstances and motives behind the attempted crash, including whether it was linked to terrorist activity or involved prior planning. UAE judicial authorities have jurisdiction over the case, as the aircraft was operating under UAE flag.

An off-duty Dubai Reserve crew member, a passenger on the flight, assisted in diverting and safely landing the plane in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Passengers expressed admiration for the captain, an Indian national, for his bravery in the face of the crisis. Israeli envoy Yossi Shelley stated that Israel initially believed the co-pilot, identified as an Omani national, had acted alone, though a motive had yet to be determined.

Prime Minister Netanyahu called the event a serious security incident, hinting that the attacker might have mental health concerns. Upon learning of the incident, US President Donald Trump commented that the co-pilot might have been a terrorist or a "whack-job."