Dubai, October 1: The United Arab Emirates has ordered an investigation into the incident involving a Flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv, with authorities also examining whether the episode had any possible connection to terrorism.
The inquiry was ordered after an incident inside the cockpit of Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The aircraft was diverted to Saudi Arabia and landed safely in Tabuk after the situation on board was brought under control.
UAE authorities said investigators will examine what led to the confrontation, whether the incident was planned and whether anyone else was involved. They will also look into the possible motive behind the alleged attack.
The flight’s captain, Indian national Smit Machchhar, was injured during the incident and received medical treatment after the emergency landing. Other crew members and passengers helped restrain the suspected attacker.
The aircraft reportedly lost altitude during the incident, prompting the crew to divert it to Saudi Arabia. After landing, Saudi authorities took the suspected attacker into custody.
The exact motive remains unclear and authorities have not announced any final findings. Investigators are expected to examine evidence from the aircraft and statements from passengers and crew members before reaching any conclusions.
The UAE has urged the public not to rely on unverified reports about the incident while the investigation is under way.
The episode has attracted attention because of the flight’s destination and the circumstances surrounding the cockpit incident. Investigators will determine whether it was an isolated act or involved any wider planning.
Passengers were later able to continue their journey to Israel, while authorities in the UAE and Saudi Arabia continued examining the circumstances surrounding the incident.
