The UAE said its co-pilot attacked the captain and tried to seize control.
Flydubai Axe Attack Raises New Aviation Security Fears A routine Dubai-Tel Aviv flight turned into a terrifying security crisis inside the cockpit. An Indian captain’s actions may have helped prevent a catastrophe involving more than 170 people. What is happening now? UAE prosecutors say the co-pilot of Flydubai Flight FZ1073 attacked the captain with a cockpit crash axe and tried to seize control of the aircraft during Wednesday’s Dubai-Tel Aviv flight. UAE authorities have described the incident as an attempted “terrorist attack.” Passengers and crew subdued the co-pilot, while a reserve pilot helped take control. The aircraft made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. The UAE is leading the investigation into the suspect’s motive and possible connections. Reports identify the co-pilot as Omani national Hamam al-Hammami, although UAE authorities had not publicly confirmed his identity in their initial statement. Why it matters The case raises difficult questions about airline ...