Key Takeaways
- Israeli security agencies (IDF, Mossad, and Shin Bet) are treating a violent cockpit struggle aboard FlyDubai flight FZ1073 as a terrorist attack.
- The aircraft plunged nearly 14,000 feet in less than 30 seconds after a co-pilot allegedly stabbed the captain and attempted to crash the plane.
- Israeli fighter jets were scrambled and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened emergency consultations as the plane broadcast a "7500" hijacking code.
- The flight, carrying approximately 180 passengers, made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where the suspect was taken into custody.
Israeli security officials have confirmed to i24NEWS and other outlets that they are investigating a violent mid-air incident aboard a FlyDubai flight as a terrorist attack. The flight, FZ1073, was en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv on Wednesday when a physical altercation erupted in the cockpit, leading to a near-catastrophic descent.
According to preliminary reports from the Israeli security establishment, including the Mossad and Shin Bet, the co-pilot is suspected of repeatedly stabbing the captain with a pocketknife. During the struggle, the Boeing (BA) 737 MAX plunged from an altitude of 34,000 feet to approximately 14,000 feet at a rate exceeding 30,000 feet per minute.
The aircraft's transponder briefly broadcast squawk code 7500, the international signal for a hijacking or unlawful interference. This prompted the Israeli Air Force to scramble fighter jets to intercept the aircraft as it entered Jordanian airspace. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz held emergency security assessments as the situation unfolded.
Passengers aboard the flight described a scene of "moments of terror," reporting screams and the sight of blood in the cockpit area. Several Israeli passengers and off-duty pilots traveling on the aircraft reportedly assisted the crew in subduing the attacker. The plane was forced to divert to Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia, a country with which Israel does not have formal diplomatic relations.
While initial reports suggested a "pilot brawl," senior Israeli officials now state there are strong indications the co-pilot intended to carry out a suicide terror attack or a "September 11-style" crash. FlyDubai confirmed an "inflight incident" occurred but has not yet released a detailed statement regarding the attacker's identity or motive.
The Israeli government is currently working with international authorities to coordinate the safe return of the stranded passengers from Saudi Arabia. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities examine the background of the co-pilot and the security protocols that allowed a weapon onto the flight deck.
Ed Liston is a senior contributing editor at TheStockMarketWatch.com. An active market watcher and investor, Ed guides an independent team of experienced analysts and writes for multiple stock trader publications.