FlyDubai copilot lost earlier job over radical views

FlyDubai pilot Hamam al-Hammami, 29, was accused of attempting to carry out a terrorist act against a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Previously employed by Oman Air, al-Hammami was dismissed from his previous job due to his involvement with views considered radical, according to Bloomberg. Israeli authorities identified him as an Omani citizen, although specific details of his identity, age, and employment history were not disclosed until recently.

On September 30, al-Hammami allegedly attacked the captain with an ax kept in the cockpit for emergencies and tried to seize control of the aircraft. The flight, carrying over 170 passengers, was diverted to Saudi Arabia after passengers and reserve crew members intervened to subdue al-Hammami and stabilize the plane. The UAE federal prosecutor and authorities are now conducting an investigation to determine the motives behind the incident and if any other parties were involved.

Additionally, the presence of an Omani pilot on a flight to Israel has raised concerns due to the lack of diplomatic relations between Oman and Israel. Israeli officials have expressed their dissatisfaction with the situation and are seeking answers, including whether al-Hammami held any other citizenship.