Omani National Identified as Suspected Hijacker in FlyDubai Incident
Authorities are investigating how the aviation management graduate, previously flagged for extremist materials, was able to attempt to hijack a flight bound for Israel.
The individual identified as the pilot who allegedly stabbed a colleague and attempted to hijack a FlyDubai plane has been named as Hamam Al Hammami, a 29-year-old Omani national. The incident occurred on a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
Officials are reportedly investigating how Al Hammami was permitted to fly for FlyDubai and occupy a position as first officer in the cockpit. According to reports, Al Hammami was found with extremist materials while working as a co-pilot trainee for Oman Air in 2024, after which he was demoted to an administrative role.
A source from Buckinghamshire New University confirmed that Al Hammami completed a three-year distance-learning course in aviation management, graduating in 2023. The university stated that Al Hammami did not undertake any pilot training there. He is also understood to have studied engineering at a university in Australia.
Israeli officials stated that brave passengers subdued the alleged hijacker on Wednesday before the plane could reach its intended destination. Video footage captured passenger distress as the aircraft experienced an erratic descent.
The flight, carrying 182 people, was diverted to Tabuk in northwestern Saudi Arabia for an emergency landing. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that Al Hammami was arrested in Saudi Arabia and is currently undergoing interrogation there. Sources close to the investigation indicate that Al Hammami, who was transferred from Saudi Arabia to the United Arab Emirates on Thursday, is cooperating with authorities.