A Flydubai co-pilot attacked a captain with a crash axe during a flight to Israel, causing a dramatic 17,000ft plunge before passengers intervened. The incident involved 170 passengers and raised security concerns over the co-pilot's background.
The co-pilot, identified as Hamam al-Hammami, an Omani national, was seen stabbing the pilot in the cockpit. Investigators are examining whether he acted alone or was linked to extremist groups. The axe, typically used in emergencies, was not concealed.
UAE authorities are probing the incident for potential terrorist links, with the co-pilot's past at Oman Air and his radicalization concerns under scrutiny. The flight's route to Israel has been suspended pending further investigation.
The co-pilot's motive remains unclear, with some suggesting suicidal intent and others pointing to possible extremist ties. Security agencies from multiple countries are collaborating to uncover the full context of the attack.