SA pilot helps save lives on Flydubai after planned ‘terrorist act’
The incident unfolded aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv when the co-pilot allegedly launched an attack.
A South African pilot, who was traveling as an off-duty crew member, played a crucial role in averting a potential disaster on a Flydubai flight. The incident occurred when the co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain during a flight carrying more than 150 passengers to Israel, forcing the crew to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
The South African pilot, along with a New Zealand colleague, joined forces with other passengers and crew to subdue the attacker and regain control of the aircraft. The Boeing 737 experienced a sharp drop in altitude before stabilizing and diverting to Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. All passengers survived the ordeal, and UAE investigators concluded that the incident was a planned "terrorist act."
Flydubai suspended flights to and from Israel following the attack, leaving some Israelis stranded in the UAE. UAE authorities are still investigating the co-pilot's motives and any possible links to extremist activity. In a statement, Dubai Crown Prince Hamdan bin Mohammed praised the South African captain, recognizing his courage, responsibility, and concern for human life.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 4 other outlets
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