Authorities in the United Arab Emirates are investigating an incident in which a Flydubai co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain with a crash axe aboard a flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
According to the UAE prosecutor general, the co-pilot attacked the captain in an apparent attempt to take control of the aircraft.
The flight was carrying more than 170 people when it reportedly plunged more than 17,000 feet, or approximately 5,200 metres, about two and a half hours after departure.
The incident prompted an emergency response inside the aircraft as crew members and passengers intervened to stop the attack.
Captain Injured During Cockpit Incident
Captain Smit Machchhar sustained injuries during the confrontation, including a stab wound, according to the account of the incident.
He reportedly said he was lying injured on the cockpit floor when he realised the aircraft was descending rapidly.
Recalling the moment, Machchhar said he decided to make one final attempt to open the cockpit door from inside.
His efforts, alongside the intervention of others aboard the aircraft, helped create an opportunity for passengers to enter the cockpit and overpower the alleged attacker.
Crew members who were travelling on the flight subsequently took action to bring the aircraft safely to the ground.
A crash axe is an emergency tool commonly carried in aircraft cockpits for use in certain emergency situations.
UAE Investigates Possible Terrorism Link
The UAE prosecutor general said investigations were continuing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and the alleged motive behind the attack.
The country’s state news agency also reported that authorities were examining whether the incident had any connection to terrorist activity.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu identified the co-pilot as an Omani national.
Speaking to Fox News on Thursday, Netanyahu said the suspect reportedly called out, “Kill me, kill me!” after being subdued.
Netanyahu suggested that the suspect may have intended to bring down the aircraft and alleged that he had undergone Islamist radical indoctrination. Those characterisations were attributed to the Israeli prime minister and have not been established as independent findings in the information provided.
Injured Captain Receives Medical Treatment
Following the incident, Machchhar was taken to a nearby hospital before being airlifted to Abu Dhabi for further treatment.
The Indian embassy in the UAE said on Thursday that the captain was in stable condition, in good health and recovering well.
Machchhar also expressed confidence in his recovery, saying he expected to regain his health and fitness.
Investigators are continuing to examine the incident, including the circumstances of the cockpit confrontation and whether any wider security concerns were involved.
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