Flydubai Co-Pilot Plotted to Crash Plane Into Tel Aviv Airport, claim UAE Prosecutors

The Omani co-pilot accused of attacking the captain of flydubai flight FZ1073 allegedly planned to seize the aircraft and crash it into the passenger terminal at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport, the UAE Attorney-General said on Friday.

Counsellor Dr Hamad Saif Al Shamsi said investigators had uncovered a plot intended to cause maximum casualties during the September 30 flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, according to UAE state news agency WAM.

The 29-year-old suspect allegedly used two earlier flights to Tel Aviv to familiarise himself with the route and airport before attempting the attack on his third flight.

CAPTAIN ATTACKED, AIRCRAFT DIVERTED

According to the prosecution’s account, the suspect attacked the captain in the cockpit with an emergency axe. The captain resisted and tried to summon assistance.

A pilot travelling aboard the aircraft for the return flight noticed the cockpit door opening and closing unusually. He approached and entered using the access code, where he saw the attack.

The pilot intervened with help from a cabin crew member and passengers, who rescued the injured captain and restrained the suspect, WAM reported.

The return-flight captain and his co-pilot then took control of the aircraft, diverted it and landed safely at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia.

A forensic medical report found that the captain had sustained recent head injuries consistent with an implement resembling an emergency axe. The injuries were potentially fatal and matched the timing of the incident, according to the prosecution.

INVESTIGATORS TRACE ALLEGED PLANNING

Al Shamsi said investigators traced signs of the suspect’s alleged radicalisation to 2017, when he was studying in Australia. The inquiry found that he had consumed extremist literature and online material glorifying terrorist organisations and suicide attacks.

According to the confession described by prosecutors, the suspect drew inspiration from the September 11, 2001, attacks in the United States and linked his decision to pursue aviation to his intention of carrying out a similar operation.

Investigators also alleged that he prepared for the attack by consuming material promoting terrorism and undertaking boxing training with a private coach.

WAM reported that the suspect described contacts made while studying in Melbourne, including people associated with a centre called “My Centre”. His account included allegations about the centre’s management and affiliations. Investigators are continuing to examine his connections and whether anyone else was involved.

RECRUITMENT CHECKS UNDER REVIEW

The suspect worked for Oman Air from 2020 to 2024 and Royal Air Maroc in early 2025 before joining flydubai in January 2026, the Attorney-General said.

Investigators examined flydubai’s recruitment procedures and found that he had met the professional and security requirements. These included holding a pilot’s licence, providing a certificate of good conduct and completing the required checks.

Those procedures had not revealed indications of his alleged extremist views or plans, WAM reported.

PROSECUTORS EXAMINE POSSIBLE CONNECTIONS

Al Shamsi said the suspect gave a detailed confession in the presence of his lawyer and with the legally prescribed safeguards in place. He allegedly outlined his motives, preparations and actions, while claiming that he had acted alone.

Investigators are still checking that claim and examining the possibility of accomplices or other connections.

The Public Prosecution has taken statements from the injured captain, the return-flight pilots and crew members. It is also examining recordings, technical reports and other evidence, with further findings to be announced as the investigation proceeds.

With inputs from ANI