The UAE is investigating a violent cockpit attack aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073 after the airline’s co-pilot allegedly struck the captain with a crash axe and tried to seize control of the aircraft. The Boeing service from Dubai to Tel Aviv carried 174 people and diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely after crew and passengers subdued the attacker.
The captain was seriously injured but managed to open the cockpit door, allowing others on board to intervene and restrain the co-pilot. Emirati authorities are treating the case as a possible terrorist act and are examining physical and digital evidence, alongside the wider circumstances and motive.
The suspect has been transferred to the UAE for further proceedings, while investigators continue to assess whether the incident involved prior planning or any broader security connection. The episode has intensified scrutiny of cockpit security and the handling of emergency rescue equipment on board commercial flights.