Indian pilot stabbed co-pilot on Tel Aviv-bound Flydubai flight, leading to emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. The incident involved a stabbing between pilots and an attempted crash, with 174 passengers safely landing. The event has raised concerns about aviation security.
The incident occurred on a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, which diverted to Saudi Arabia after a stabbing between pilots. Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian national, was stabbed by his co-pilot and later identified as a hero after helping passengers subdue the attacker. The flight landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Israeli officials have labeled the incident an attempted jihadist terror attack, with the Israeli defense minister calling for increased security on both Israeli and non-Israeli carriers. The event has prompted discussions on aviation safety and the need for collaboration against extremist threats.
The incident has led to a suspension of flights to and from Israel by Flydubai amid an ongoing investigation. Israeli officials have also spoken with UAE and German counterparts to strengthen regional security efforts against extremist elements.