Investigators uncover 9/11-style plan behind flydubai attack
Investigators examining the cockpit attack aboard a flydubai flight to Tel Aviv believe the co-pilot intended to kill the captain and crash the aircraft into a target in Israel in an attack modelled on September 11, 2001. A preliminary Israeli investigation has concluded that Hamam al-Hammami, a 29-year-old Omani national, planned to take control of Flight FZ1073 after incapacitating Captain Smit…
Investigators are examining a plan modeled on the September 11, 2001, attacks behind a cockpit confrontation on a flydubai flight to Tel Aviv. The co-pilot, Hamam al-Hammami, allegedly intended to kill the captain and crash the plane into a target in Israel. Police believe al-Hammami acted alone but are still investigating potential extremist connections.
The 29-year-old Omani national allegedly incapacitated the captain, Smit Machchhar, before attempting to take control of Flight FZ1073. However, the captain was able to unlock the reinforced cockpit door, allowing other crew members and passengers to intervene. The aircraft was then diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.
Saudi authorities have dispatched teams to investigate the incident, examining operational and security aspects. Flydubai has stated that all passengers and crew were safe, and the captain returned to the UAE after receiving medical clearance. The investigation also delves into al-Hammami's employment history, particularly his background in aviation in Oman, where there were concerns about extremist views.
However, there is no established operational link between him and a militant organization. This incident has led Israel to tighten scrutiny of foreign pilots flying into Ben Gurion International Airport.
Written by urgent.news from Arabian Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
