FlyDubai Co-Pilot Identified as Security Risk by Oman Air Before Attack
The Omani national was previously suspended for possessing extremist materials but was allowed to continue in an administrative role.
The co-pilot of a FlyDubai flight who allegedly attacked the plane's captain and attempted to crash the aircraft en route to Israel was previously identified as a security risk by Oman Air, according to senior intelligence and law enforcement officials.
The suspect, an Omani national, was suspended by Oman Air in 2024 after being found in possession of extremist materials, sources told ABC News. While grounded from flying for one year, he was permitted to remain with the airline in an administrative capacity.
Investigators are reportedly working to determine how the individual was subsequently cleared to fly for FlyDubai and ended up in the cockpit of a plane bound for Israel.
The incident was averted when the flight's captain, Smit Machchhar, fought back, and passengers subdued the attacker. The plane, which had been put into a rapid dive, landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
One passenger, Yaniv Hayoun, recounted helping to steady the plane's controls until a third pilot, who was traveling in the passenger cabin, could take over. Another passenger, Dr. Shota Musaev, stated that the suspect, who was bloodied and restrained, told him, "Kill me please, kill me please," and identified himself as being from Oman.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the suspect had undergone "Islamist radicalization" and that authorities were investigating whether he was sent by an external party. Netanyahu praised the passengers for preventing a tragedy comparable to 9/11.
The suspect has been transferred from Saudi Arabia to the United Arab Emirates and is reportedly cooperating with authorities, having indicated an intent to crash the aircraft in Israel. Israeli officials are expected to participate in the questioning.