UAE says Flydubai suspect intended to crash plane into Tel Aviv airport

On September 30th, a co-pilot aboard a Flydubai flight planned to execute a suicide attack on Tel Aviv's international airport, according to the top prosecutor from the United Arab Emirates. The Omani co-pilot drew inspiration from the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in the United States, aiming to inflict the maximum loss of life, as stated in the findings released by state media.

Despite meeting all the professional and security requirements to work as a pilot, including possessing a pilot's license, a good conduct certificate, and undergoing necessary checks, the co-pilot targeted a catastrophic outcome.

During the incident, passengers recount the co-pilot storming the cockpit and attempting to regain control of the plane after it suddenly plummeted approximately 5,000 meters. The Indian captain sustained a serious injury when the co-pilot attacked him with an axe, but managed to open the cockpit door, enabling passengers and crew to overpower the attacker. The aircraft eventually landed in Saudi Arabia for an emergency landing, with most of the passengers being Israeli nationals.

In a statement on Thursday, Israeli President Isaac Herzog honored six Israelis who played a crucial role in thwarting the attempted hijacking, bestowing them with the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism. President Herzog emphasized the need for comprehensive answers to the incident, stating that everyone deserves clear and satisfactory explanations.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commended the passengers and the pilot for their bravery in preventing the attack, ordering a thorough review of all security measures pertaining to foreign civil aviation in Israel.