Flydubai Co-Pilot Used Axe to Attack Captain in ‘Suicidal’ Attempt to Crash Plane

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have stated that the co-pilot of a Flydubai flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv attacked the pilot with a crash axe in an effort to seize control of the aircraft. The incident occurred approximately two and a half hours into the flight, causing the plane carrying more than 170 people to plummet more than 17,000ft (5,200m).

Captain Smit Machchhar was stabbed during the assault but managed to keep the cockpit secure. On-duty crew members eventually entered the flight deck, and together with passengers who overpowered the attacker, they secured the cabin. The aircraft was subsequently landed safely.

The UAE attorney general confirmed to state media that investigations are underway to determine the full circumstances and motives behind the attack. According to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the co-pilot is an Omani national. Speaking to Fox News, Netanyahu described the attacker as suicidal, noting that the man begged crew members to kill him after being subdued. “It looks very likely that he was going to down the plane,” Netanyahu said, adding that the individual had undergone Islamist radical indoctrination.

The UAE has initiated an inquiry to determine if the incident is linked to terrorist activity, according to the country’s state news agency.

Captain Machchhar, identified as a national hero for his actions, was initially hospitalized nearby before being airlifted to Abu Dhabi. The Indian embassy in the UAE reported on Thursday that he is in stable condition and recovering well. In a recent conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Machchhar expressed confidence in his recovery, stating, “I am confident that the recovery will be there and I will become fit and healthy again.” He also revealed that he opened the cockpit door to allow others to enter during the struggle.