flydubai incident highlights: Trump claims flydubai's Omani co-pilot linked to Iran, says authorities ‘working on it’
flydubai incident highlights: Israel PM Netanyahu said that the Omani co-pilot who had stabbed Indian pilot-in-command Smit Machchhar “underwent Islamic radical indoctrination”.
flydubai incident highlights: US President Donald Trump has claimed the Omani co-pilot who stabbed Captain Smit Machchhar on the flydubai flight from Dubai on Tel Aviv on Wednesday had links to Iran. When asked about whether the Omani co-pilot had any connection with Iran, Trump said, “I would say the answer, based on what I'm hearing, is yes. But we're working on it right now.”...Read More
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had earlier on Thursday told Fox News that the Omani co-pilot on the flydubai flight “underwent Islamic radical indoctrination”. He added that the co-pilot was able to exploit a “loophole”, despite rules restricting those pilots from flying an aircraft to Israel whose countries do not have diplomatic ties with Tel Aviv.
Passengers aboard the flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv arrived safely in Israel on Wednesday after passengers and crew stopped a co-pilot's alleged attempt to crash the aircraft, Israeli officials said. Flydubai said earlier that the reasons behind the incident were still unclear and urged people to avoid "premature speculation."
The incident took place when the co-pilot stabbed the pilot and sent the aircraft plunging nearly 14,000 feet (4,267 m) in less than 30 seconds.
The UAE prosecutor general has ordered an investigation into the incident. Meanwhile, Saudi authorities have not publicly shared much information about the incident, apart from confirming that investigations were underway.
Indian pilot hailed as ‘hero’
An Indian pilot was flying a Flydubai flight on Wednesday when his copilot stabbed him in an alleged attempt to crash the aircraft. His efforts to prevent the incident have since been praised by world leaders.
Capt. Smit Machchhar, who is from Mumbai, suffered serious injuries as passengers entered the cockpit and restrained the attacker while the Boeing 737 rapidly lost altitude, according to witnesses and Israeli authorities.
Machchhar was taken to the hospital and was in stable condition, the Indian embassy in Riyadh said on Wednesday. The embassy added that its officials were in touch with his family and Saudi authorities.
Netanyahu says too early to say if ‘Iran had any role’
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that Israel would investigate the "root" of the co-pilot involved in the foiled attempt to crash the flydubai flight bound for Israel. He also said Israel would "possibly" take part in the investigation.
"We'll get to the root of this attacker, whether he had accomplices, whether Iran was behind it. I think we'll find out very soon," Netanyahu said in an interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity on the network's "Hannity" program.
In an interview with CNN, Netanyahu stressed that he did not yet have information allowing him to attribute the incident to Tehran.
“So we’ll find out very soon if Iran had anything to do with it, but I can’t say that in advance of the conclusion of the interrogation.”
He later added: “We know that Iran is sponsoring a lot of this, but I can’t speak specifically of this.”
PM Modi, Netanyahu, Trump praise Indian flight
World leaders, including PM Modi, have praised the Indian pilot and called him a “hero”.
"Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO. In the face of the gravest danger and despite being seriously injured, he showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others. His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy," Modi wrote on X.
Trump also called the pilot a “hero,” saying he managed to open the door, fall back, and shout for help.
"The pilot was in very bad shape; I guess he still is in very bad shape, but he had the sense to, amazing, to, in a way he was a hero," he said, recalling his conversation with Netanyahu.
Netanyahu on Wednesday called Machchhar a "true hero", saying that "despite being stabbed and seriously injured, he fought back, resisted, opened the cockpit door, and enabled passengers and crew to overpower the attacker - preventing a catastrophic mid-air disaster."
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- 2 Oct 2026, 06:30:30 AM IST
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- 2 Oct 2026, 05:58:05 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Indian embassy in UAE gives update on wounded Captain Smit Machchhar
The Indian ambassador to United Arab Emirates met with Captain Smit Machchhar on Thursday, with the embassy saying he was in "good health and recovering well."
Ambassador Deepak Mittal met with "Captain Smit Machchhar and his family at the hospital. Captain Machchhar is in good health and recovering well," the Indian embassy in the UAE wrote on X.
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- 2 Oct 2026, 04:46:28 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Saudi Ministry of Interior gives update on incident
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior released a statement on the emergency landing at Tabuk Airport and the subsequent investigation. The update came after Saudi Arabia handed over the attacking co-pilot to UAE authorities. The probe in Saudi Arabia also included a security team from the UAE, the update confirmed.
"The source stated that preliminary investigations conducted by the relevant authorities in the Kingdom, with the participation of a security team from the brotherly United Arab Emirates, indicated that the first officer had assaulted the aircraft captain, resulting in both sustaining various injuries," a translation of the statement shared by the Saudi embassy in US read.
- 2 Oct 2026, 03:39:44 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Saudi Arabia says probe indicates co-pilot assaulted captain, forcing emergency landing
Saudi Arabia said Thursday that its preliminary investigation found that the co-pilot of a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv assaulted the captain during the flight, forcing the aircraft to make an emergency landing in the Saudi city of Tabuk.
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- 2 Oct 2026, 02:30:27 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Trump warns Iran of 'very hard' response if linked to copilot attack on Israel-bound flight
US President Donald Trump warned that Iran would face a severe response if investigators determine that Tehran was linked to the copilot accused of trying to crash an Israel-bound passenger flight.
Trump issued the warning as investigators worked to establish why the copilot allegedly stabbed the captain of a FlyDubai flight, sending the aircraft into a steep descent before other people on board intervened. The plane was eventually landed safely in Saudi Arabia.
More than 180 people were aboard the aircraft.
Reporters at the White House asked Trump whether he had received any information linking the alleged attacker to Iran.
"We’re working on it right now," Trump said.
Asked whether he believed Iran was involved, Trump replied, "I would say the answer, based on what I’m hearing, is yes, but we’re working on it right now."
Trump was then asked whether the US would retaliate against Iran if it was determined to be behind the incident.
"Oh they’ll be hit, very hard, don’t worry," he said.
“You just ask them,” he added. “They know what happened. They’ll be hit very hard.”
- 2 Oct 2026, 01:16:25 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Gujarat CM announces state award for Captain Smit Machchhar
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced the 'Visisht Gujarat Garima Award' for flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar.
"The courage of Captain Smit Machchhar is being saluted by the entire world today. This valiant son of Gujarat has illuminated the name of Gujarat and the nation across the globe through his heroism. To honour his extraordinary act of bravery and humanity, the Government of Gujarat will bestow upon him the 'Visisht Gujarat Garima Award.' The entire Gujarat is praying for his swift recovery," Patel said.
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- 2 Oct 2026, 12:19:54 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Saudi Arabia says suspect handed over to the UAE
Saudi Arabia said the suspect in flydubai plane attack has been handed over to the United Arab Emirates, according to AP.
- 1 Oct 2026, 11:08:14 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Trump claims Omani co-pilot linked to Iran
flydubai incident LIVE updates: US President Donald Trump on Thursday claimed the Omani co-pilot who stabbed Captain Smit Machchhar on the flydubai flight from Dubai on Tel Aviv on Wednesday had links to Iran.
When asked about whether the Omani co-pilot had any connection with Iran, Trump said, “I would say the answer, based on what I'm hearing, is yes. But we're working on it right now.”
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- 1 Oct 2026, 09:45:48 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Captain Smit Machchhar shifted to Abu Dhabi, Indian ambassador to UAE meets pilot
flydubai incident LIVE updates: The pilot-in-command of the flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv on Wednesday, who was stabbed by his co-pilot, has been shifted to Abu Dhabi for “continued medical attention and recovery”, India's ministry of external affairs said.
India's ambassador in UAE also met Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian national, and enquired about his well-being, the MEA said. The ambassador also met with the pilot's family and assured them of all possible support.
“We once again salute Captain Smit Machchhar's valour and courage. We also convey our deep appreciation for the admiration and support he has received from across the world for his act of gallantry,” the MEA stated.
- 1 Oct 2026, 08:58:06 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Why Omani co-pilot attacked the captain of Dubai-Tel Aviv flight remains unknown
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Investigators are probing the flydubai incident, which took place on Wednesday, and working to establish why the Omani co-pilot stabbed pilot-in-command Smit Machchhar during the flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, the Associated Press reported.
A regional official briefed on the investigation said the co-pilot was under arrest and confirmed that Saudi authorities were working with countries, including Israel, to try to determine a motive. o determine a motive.
“All possible scenarios, from terrorism to mental disorders, are being looked into. Nothing is ruled out for now,” the official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told AP.
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- 1 Oct 2026, 08:15:40 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: How a TV show potentially helped passenger take control of flydubai flight
flydubai incident LIVE updates: A passenger aboard the flydubai flight on Wednesday said the inspiration behind his miraculous effort to help restrain the Omani co-pilot and take control of the plane was a TV show.
Yaniv Hayoun told Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu during a meeting that after entering the cockpit, he had started “pulling back the handles.” “I watch Air Crash Investigation, Mr. Prime Minister — really. The plane started to level out a bit, and then the pilot told me he was taking over the controls from there,” he said, according to CNN.
- 1 Oct 2026, 07:49:05 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Israeli airlines plan to resume Dubai flights after incident
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Israel's three largest airlines said on Thursday they planned to resume flights to Dubai following the flydubai incident on Wednesday, Reuters news agency reported.
Security authorities halted Israeli airlines' flights to the UAE at the outset of the war with Iran in late February. Still, 837,000 passengers, or 7.5% of the total travelling through Ben Gurion, flew there over the first eight months of 2026, half of them on flydubai, according to Reuters.
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- 1 Oct 2026, 07:40:40 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Indian pilot Smit Machchhar ‘in good health and recovering well,’ says Indian Embassy in UAE
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Indian pilot Smit Machchhar, who was stabbed by his co-pilot on a flydubai flight on Wednesday, is in “good health and recovering well”, the Indian embassy in UAE said.
Machchhar was earlier airlifted to Abu Dhabi for further treatment. The embassy said it "remains in close coordination with local authorities to ensure his continued medical care and well-being.
- 1 Oct 2026, 07:12:02 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Omani co-pilot exploited ‘loophole’ to fly plane to Israel, says Netanyahu
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said that the Omani co-pilot of the flydubai flight had passed a “loophole” to fly the plane to Tel Aviv.
“Well, he was an Omani national and we have constraints that say you can't have pilots from countries that don't have diplomatic relations with Israel…So obviously he was able to go through that. So there's a loophole there: How to make sure that we screened pilots in advance,” the Israeli PM told Fox News.
He said that pre-screening had been done for pilots who had flown the passengers aboard flight FZ1073 from Saudi Arabia to Israel. “We checked their background, but obviously there was a loophole here, and we're taking care of that, among other things,” Netanyahu said.
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- 1 Oct 2026, 06:31:17 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: What did Netanyahu and PM Modi say about Indian pilot Smit Machchhar?
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Indian pilot Smit Machchhar as a “hero” after his act of unlocking the cockpit door of the flydubai flight despite being stabbed helped passengers enter the space and restrain his co-pilot.
Machchhar was covered with blood on the floor when he managed to click the release to open the cockpit door, a spokesperson for Netanyahu told Reuters news agency. “He saved the lives of 174 people, including Israeli citizens and other nationals,” Netanyahu had said earlier in a post on X.
PM Modi too, in a post on X, lauded Machchhar as a “hero”. "In the face of the gravest danger and despite being seriously injured, he showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others. His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy," PM Modi said.
- 1 Oct 2026, 06:00:33 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Will be able to say in a matter of days whether co-pilot has connections to Iran, Netanyahu says
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Israeli PM Netanyahu has said that with the probe being launched into the incident, authorities would be able to say in a matter of few days whether the flydubai co-pilot has any connections to Iran, Reuters news agency reported.
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- 1 Oct 2026, 05:58:47 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Netanyahu says co-pilot underwent ‘radical indoctrination’
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday told Fox News that the co-pilot on the flydubai Dubai to Tel Aviv flight “underwent Islamic radical indoctrination”.
The co-pilot on the flight had stabbed the pilot-in-command, Smit Machchhar. However, the latter succeeded in unlocking the cockpit door, following which passengers rushed in to restrain the co-pilot, and one among the second set of pilots took control of the aircraft.
- 1 Oct 2026, 05:23:42 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Netanyahu spoke with UAE President after incident, says Israeli envoy
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke to UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan after the flydubai flight incident, Israeli envoy to UAE said, according to Reuters news agency.
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- 1 Oct 2026, 05:08:07 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Flydubai captain Smit Machchhar airlifted to Abu Dhabi for further treatment after cockpit attack
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar, who was stabbed by his co-pilot during an alleged mid-air cockpit attack, is being airlifted to Abu Dhabi for further treatment, according to reports.
Machchhar was injured after the co-pilot allegedly attacked him with a knife and attempted to take control of the Tel Aviv-bound aircraft. The flight later made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Machchhar, an Indian national, was hospitalised in Tabuk following the incident. He has since been credited with helping prevent a potential catastrophe after passengers and crew intervened and the aircraft was diverted to Saudi Arabia.
- 1 Oct 2026, 04:25:43 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Flydubai incident was a ‘terror act’, Indian pilot Smit Machchhar the ‘real hero’, says Israeli official
flydubai incident LIVE updates: The Flydubai cockpit incident was a "terror act" that could have resulted in a "bigger tragedy" but for the bravery of Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar, a senior Israeli official said on Thursday, hailing him as the "real hero".
Israel Consul General to South India Orli Weitzman said people in Israel, more than its leaders, were "very very appreciative" of Machchhar, who was attacked with a knife by his co-pilot and suffered bleeding injuries.
Weitzman said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had also praised Machchhar, who is currently undergoing treatment in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where the Dubai-Tel Aviv flight made an emergency landing following the mid-air incident.
"But for Machchhar's bravery, we would have faced a bigger tragedy," Weitzman said during an online media briefing.
Asked about any update on the injured pilot's health, she said, "we don't know the situation."
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- 1 Oct 2026, 03:53:13 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: UAE probes possible ‘terrorist’ link after flydubai co-pilot allegedly tries to crash Israel-bound flight
flydubai incident LIVE updates: The United Arab Emirates on Thursday said it was investigating a possible "terrorist" link to an apparent attack by a co-pilot aboard a flydubai flight to Israel, after passengers intervened to prevent the aircraft from crashing.
The dramatic incident on Wednesday ended with passengers receiving a hero's welcome from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after they arrived back in Israel from Saudi Arabia, where the aircraft made an emergency landing.
Netanyahu credited flydubai pilot and Indian national Smit Machchhar, along with the passengers, with averting a potential catastrophe after the co-pilot allegedly stabbed him and attempted to crash the plane.
Passengers said they rushed towards the cockpit after the aircraft suddenly plunged, losing around 17,000 feet in altitude within a minute, according to flight-tracking website Flightradar24.
The UAE's chief prosecutor said an investigation had been launched into the incident, including the possibility of "terrorist activity or intent".
- 1 Oct 2026, 03:04:20 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Israel to honour Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Israel will reportedly honour Captain Smit Machchhar for his courage during the attack aboard a nearly doomed flydubai flight, Israeli Ambassador to India Reuven Azar said on Thursday, calling the Indian pilot a “great hero” for helping save the lives of passengers despite being seriously injured.
“He indeed is a great hero. And India and Israel are great partners in the war. We will find a way to recognise him,” Azar said in an exclusive conversation with India Today.
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- 1 Oct 2026, 02:56:18 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Gujarat to honour Capt. Smit Machchhar
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel announced in a post on X on Thursday that Capt. Smit Machchhar will be honoured with the “Visisht Gujarat Garima Award”.
“This valiant son of Gujarat has illuminated the name of Gujarat and the nation across the globe through his heroism. The Gujarati spirit flowing in his veins fills us all with immense pride. To honor his extraordinary act of bravery and humanity, the Government of Gujarat will bestow upon Captain Smit Machhar the ‘Visisht Gujarat Garima Award’,” he wrote.
- 1 Oct 2026, 02:47:24 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Israel to present 'heroism' awards for 4 flydubai passengers
flydubai incident LIVE updates: Israeli President Isaac Herzog said on Thursday that he would present "heroism" awards to four Israelis who helped overpower a flydubai co-pilot and stopped him from crashing the aircraft.
"You put yourselves at risk to save others and prevented a terrible disaster. Today, the whole world saw the beautiful and courageous face of Israeli society," Herzog said in a statement.
"I am proud of you, and I thank you on behalf of the State of Israel."
Herzog also praised Indian pilot Smit Machchha, who Israeli officials said opened the cockpit door despite being stabbed by the co-pilot, allowing passengers and crew to save the plane.
“To Captain Smith Machhar - thank you from the bottom of my heart for the bravery, determination, and actions that saved many lives. I wish you a full recovery and strong health. The State of Israel extends immense gratitude to you,” he said.
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- 1 Oct 2026, 02:30:08 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: Indian envoy to UAE meets 'hero' pilot's family in Dubai
flydubai incident LIVE: Indian envoy to the UAE Deepak Mittal met the family of Captain Smit Machchhar in Dubai on Thursday. The Indian pilot was hailed as a "hero" for foiling his co-pilot's alleged attempt to crash a flydubai flight carrying nearly 180 people. Mittal also updated the family on his health and recovery.
Accompanied by Indian Consul General to Dubai Emmadi Vishnu Vardhan Reddy, Mittal met Machchhar's family and assured them of the Indian government's full support and assistance for his welfare and well-being.
"Ambassador of India to the UAE met Captain Smit Machchhar's family in Dubai and conveyed the Government of India's full support and assistance for his welfare and wellbeing," ministry of external affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on X.
The Indian mission in the UAE said the country was "immensely proud of Captain Smit for his exceptional bravery and selfless service."
- 1 Oct 2026, 02:15:37 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: Israeli leaders hail Indian pilot as 'true hero'
flydubai incident LIVE: Israeli leaders have praised Indian national Smit Machchhar as a "hero" for stopping his co-pilot's alleged attempt to crash a flydubai flight carrying nearly 180 people.
"Despite being stabbed and seriously injured, he fought back, resisted, opened the cockpit door, and enabled passengers and crew to overpower the attacker - preventing a catastrophic mid-air disaster," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement, calling him a "true hero".
Israeli President Isaac Herzog also thanked Machchhar, saying he "with his last strength, opened the cockpit door and enabled the neutralisation of the terrorist".
Israeli Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana said the people of Israel were praying for Captain Machchhar, the "brave Indian pilot" who fought off his co-pilot's mid-air attack and saved the Israeli passengers.
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- 1 Oct 2026, 01:48:27 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: Saudi turns down Israeli requests to send planes to retrieve passengers, says report
flydubai incident LIVE: Saudi Arabia rejected several Israeli requests to send aircraft to evacuate passengers from a diverted flydubai flight, a Saudi source familiar with the matter told news agency AFP on Thursday.
"They asked to send military warplanes. Two or three direct to Tabuk airport," the source said. "Turned down."
"Then asked to send [El Al] commercial one. Turned down as well."
The source said the requests were conveyed through the UAE rather than directly to Israeli authorities.
The development comes a day after a flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after one of the pilots allegedly attempted to crash the aircraft.
Saudi Arabia has resisted pressure in recent years to join the US-backed Abraham Accords and establish diplomatic relations with Israel. Riyadh has maintained that it will not normalise ties with Israel without a clear path towards Palestinian statehood.
- 1 Oct 2026, 01:13:37 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: Too early to say if Iran was behind flydubai scare, says Netanyahu
flydubai incident LIVE: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday said Israel would investigate the alleged attempt to crash a flydubai flight bound for Israel and examine whether Iran was involved. He also said Israel may take part in the probe.
“We'll get to the root of this attacker, whether he had accomplices, whether Iran was behind it. I think we'll find out very soon,” Netanyahu said in an interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity on the network's “Hannity” programme. Full story here.
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- 1 Oct 2026, 12:51:43 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: UAE prosecutor general orders probe into diverted flight
flydubai incident LIVE: The UAE prosecutor general has ordered an investigation into the incident aboard flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv, which was diverted to Saudi Arabia and landed there after an altercation in the cockpit, the state news agency reported on Thursday.
The probe will look into the circumstances and motive behind the incident, including whether it was linked to militant activity or planned or directed in advance.
UAE judicial authorities have jurisdiction over the case as the aircraft is registered in the UAE and operates under its flag. The statement said UAE law applies to crimes committed on board "even if they occur outside the country's territory".
- 1 Oct 2026, 12:37:57 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: Copilot's identity and motive remain unknown
flydubai incident LIVE: The identity and motive of the Omani co-pilot accused of stabbing the captain on a flight to Israel remained unclear on Thursday. The attack caused the aircraft to plunge sharply and forced it to land in Saudi Arabia, as investigators worked to establish more details.
Saudi and UAE authorities have not publicly shared much information about the incident, apart from confirming that investigations were underway. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said the co-pilot was arrested.
In an interview with CNN that aired on Wednesday evening, Netanyahu said the attacker was an Omani national and was being questioned in Saudi Arabia.
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- 1 Oct 2026, 12:26:54 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: Aviation experts shocked at flight surviving 16,000-feet plunge
flydubai incident LIVE: Aviation experts have expressed shock that the flydubai Boeing 737 MAX 8 survived a rapid drop of thousands of feet in less than a minute and managed to land safely in Saudi Arabia after a violent confrontation in the cockpit.
Experts cited by news agency AP said they were surprised the aircraft did not crash after such a steep descent, which reportedly caused most of the rudder on its tail to break off.
Steve Arroyo, a former United Airlines pilot and aviation safety expert, said he was surprised that the aircraft managed to land safely. “That was a serious descent and strong aerodynamic forces on that rudder for that to happen. I’m just amazed the aircraft didn’t come apart,” Arroyo told AP.
- 1 Oct 2026, 12:11:37 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: Israeli President to present 'heroism' awards to 4 flydubai passengers
flydubai incident LIVE: Israeli President Isaac Herzog said he will recommend four Israelis who were aboard flydubai flight FZ1073 for the Presidential Award for Civilian Heroism, the country’s highest civilian honour for acts of heroism.
The four men include Yaniv Hayoun, Zvika Manes and Asaf Rajuan, who entered the cockpit and restrained the co-pilot after he stabbed Captain Smit Machchhar. Herzog is also recommending Dr Shota Musayev for the award for providing lifesaving medical treatment to the seriously injured Machchhar.
The President also thanked Machchhar, “whose determination and actions made it possible to subdue the attacker and saved many lives.”
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- 1 Oct 2026, 12:00:34 PM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: President Murmu hails Capt Smit Machchhar's ‘heroic courage’
flydubai incident LIVE: President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday praised flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar for his "heroic courage" and presence of mind during a mid-air incident, saying his actions helped avert a major tragedy and save several lives.
"The nation is proud of Captain Smit Machchhar. His heroic courage and incredible presence of mind have deeply touched us all," President Murmu said in a post on X.
"Even after being seriously injured in a moment of grave peril, he remained determined to protect the lives of others. His bravery and quick response helped prevent a major tragedy and saved many precious lives," she said.
"I salute his indomitable spirit. I pray for his speedy recovery and good health," the President added.
- 1 Oct 2026, 11:44:30 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: Indian pilot managed to ‘prevent 9/11 disaster’, says Netanyahu
flydubai incident LIVE: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told CNN that the pilot aboard the Flydubai flight who fought back after another pilot in the cockpit allegedly tried to crash the aircraft on Wednesday “managed to prevent a 9/11 disaster.”
He said he spoke with US President Donald Trump “about this amazing, amazing act of heroism that saved a disaster that would have been not only a disaster for Israel, but you can imagine how it could affect the global aviation.”
“What distinguishes this incident from the other tragic attacks was that this time, the good guys won,” Netanyahu said.
Israel has described the incident as an attempted terrorist attack, but has not publicly disclosed details about the attacker’s motive.
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- 1 Oct 2026, 11:38:32 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: ‘The whole world is proud of him’, says Modi about Smit Machchhar
flydubai incident LIVE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at the UPSC centenary function in New Delhi, said that Smit Machchhar used “his presence of mind and courage.”
“Today, Israel's PM also said one Indian helped prevent 9/11. We are proud of Captain Smit. I spoke to his parents and wife. He is being treated. The whole world is proud of him. I urge the nation to pray for Smit’s quick recovery,” he said.
- 1 Oct 2026, 11:17:42 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: ‘Super proud of Mumbai’s son’, says Maharashtra CM on Smit Machchhar
flydubai incident LIVE: Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis praised Captain Smit Machchhar as a "true HERO", saying the pilot had made Mumbai and the country proud.
"Salute ! Super proud of our Mumbai’s son Captain Smit Machchhar, a true HERO — who saved hundreds of lives, in such an exceptional and extraordinary manner ! Despite being ghastly injured, the presence of mind and courage showed by Smit during flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, is exemplary," he said in a post on X.
Fadnavis also praised the passengers who quickly joined forces to deal with the situation and help ensure everyone's safety.
"I also salute all the passengers who worked immediately as a team to handle the difficult situation and sail through safely. Wishing Smit a very speedy recovery and good health! You are an inspiration. Maharashtra & India is proud of you!" he added.
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- 1 Oct 2026, 11:08:28 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: ‘Your heroism saved countless lives’, says SpiceJet on Smit Machchhar
flydubai incident LIVE: In a statement posted on X, Indian airline SpiceJet said, “Our heartfelt prayers and deepest respect go out to Captain Smit Machchhar for his heroic courage aboard flydubai Flight FZ1073. Your heroism saved countless lives today.”
Notably, Machchhar worked with SpiceJet in Mumbai for 11 years before joining flydubai.
“His courage and selfless actions are a true embodiment of the values we hold dear at SpiceJet. His SpiceJet family joins millions across the country and around the world in wishing him a complete and swift recovery,” the statement added.
- 1 Oct 2026, 10:57:23 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: PM Modi speaks to Indian pilot Smit Machchhar's wife, parents
flydubai incident LIVE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke to the wife and parents of Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot injured after being attacked by his co-pilot in the cockpit of a flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv, government sources said.
Machchhar is receiving treatment in the ICU of a hospital in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, for injuries sustained in the attack. Modi spoke to his family while the pilot remains in intensive care, the sources said.
During the conversation, Modi praised Machchhar's bravery, saying his actions helped save hundreds of lives and prevent a major tragedy. The Prime Minister also said that Indian missions were extending all possible help to the family and ensuring they received the necessary support, the sources said. More details here.
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- 1 Oct 2026, 10:52:56 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: Netanyahu suspects ‘suicide attempt’, says copilot tried to jam equipment
flydubai incident LIVE: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in an interview with CBS News that the motive of the co-pilot accused of stabbing the pilot on a passenger flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv remains unknown. However, he said he did not think the incident appeared to be a hijacking.
"I think it looks like a suicide attempt simply because of what this hero Yaniv described when he went in," Netanyahu said, referring to Yaniv Hayoun, a passenger on the flydubai flight who reportedly entered the cockpit and helping restrain the attacker.
"This guy was trying to jam the equipment between the two flight seats, the pilot seats," Netanyahu said of the co-pilot. "He wasn't sitting in the pilot seat trying to stabilise the plane, he was trying to jam the equipment."
- 1 Oct 2026, 10:33:15 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: ‘Extraordinary courage saved lives’, says Jaishankar about Machchhar
flydubai incident LIVE: External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Thursday lauded Smit Machchhar for his “extraordinary courage” and “remarkable presence of mind”, saying his actions saved hundreds of lives and averted a major tragedy.
In a post on X, Jaishkar prayed for the captain’s speedy recovery, stating, "Captain Smit Machchhar’s extraordinary courage and remarkable presence of mind, even in the face of grave danger, saved hundreds of lives yesterday and averted a major tragedy. Join the countless voices from across the world in saluting his valour and praying for his speedy recovery."
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- 1 Oct 2026, 10:20:58 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: Pilots prevented another 9/11 disaster, says Israel's Netanyahu
flydubai incident LIVE: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in an interview with CNN, praised the heroes who helped avert a ‘9/11 disaster’ after a suspected attempt to crash a flydubai flight bound for Israel on Wednesday.
“The amazing heroism here of the Indian pilot, the Israeli passenger and his colleagues, and those pilots managed to prevent a 9/11 disaster, because that’s what it looks like was happening,” he said.
- 1 Oct 2026, 10:14:18 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: Report says flydubai flights to Israel halted over copilot's Omani background
flydubai incident LIVE: Israeli transportation minister Miri Regev on Wednesday asked the Shin Bet (Israel security agency) to suspend all flydubai flights entering or leaving the country following the suspected attempted hijacking of a passenger aircraft travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, a source in the ministry told The Jerusalem Post.
The request came after unverified reports suggested that the co-pilot suspected of attempting to hijack the aircraft may be of Omani origin. Israeli sources later told the Post that initial investigations indicated that the suspected hijacker was believed to be an Omani national.
Flydubai’s agreement to operate in Israel specifically requires all pilots to be nationals of countries that have normalised relations with Israel. Oman is not among those countries.
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- 1 Oct 2026, 10:03:16 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: Who is Smit Machchhar, the ‘hero’ Indian pilot?
flydubai incident LIVE: Smit Machchhar has served as a captain on flydubai's Boeing 737 fleet since June 2022, according to his LinkedIn profile. His profile shows 9,750 flying hours on the 737-800 and 737 MAX 8 and 9.
Machchhar is from Ghatkopar East in Mumbai and was living in Dubai for work, people aware of the matter told HT. Read more details here.
- 1 Oct 2026, 09:53:03 AM IST
flydubai incident LIVE: Netanyahu says probe to ascertain if Iran had role in flydubai 'crash attempt'
flydubai incident LIVE: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that Israel would investigate the "root" of the co-pilot involved in the foiled attempt to crash the flydubai flight bound for Israel. He also said Israel would "possibly" take part in the investigation.
"We'll get to the root of this attacker, whether he had accomplices, whether Iran was behind it. I think we'll find out very soon," Netanyahu said in an interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity on the network's "Hannity" program.
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