UAE prosecutors have launched an investigation into a midair altercation on a Flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv, which forced the plane to be diverted to Saudi Arabia. The incident involved a stabbing between pilots, with the co-pilot allegedly trying to crash the plane. The UAE's chief prosecutor has jurisdiction over the incident due to the aircraft's registration and the potential link to terrorist activity.
The incident occurred on a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, with the plane diverting to Tabuk airport in Saudi Arabia after a 17,000ft drop. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the co-pilot was an Omani national and that the pilot, Indian national Smit Machchhar, is being investigated. Netanyahu also stated that the incident is too early to determine if Iran was involved.
The UAE has jurisdiction over the incident, with investigators examining the motives and potential links to terrorist activity. The flight, carrying 174 passengers, was safely landed after passengers and crew overpowered the attacker. The incident has raised concerns about potential terrorist links, though no definitive conclusions have been made. The UAE has suspended flights to Israel following the incident.