The United Arab Emirates said on October 3 that the co-pilot of Flydubai flight FZ1073 attempted a terrorist act. Attorney-General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi said he attacked the captain with a crash axe inside the cockpit and tried to seize the controls, according to state news agency WAM.
The September 30 flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia. Flydubai said crew members aboard secured the aircraft and landed safely. Chief executive Ghaith Al Ghaith thanked the pilots, cabin crew and passengers who helped, and said the captain returned to the UAE after medical clearance.
The UAE Foreign Ministry said its judicial authorities have jurisdiction because the aircraft is registered in the Emirates and carries its flag. It said UAE law applies to crimes aboard the aircraft even outside national territory, and thanked Saudi authorities for their cooperation.
Separately, AP reported that the co-pilot was an Omani national previously barred from flying by Oman over concerns about extremist views, citing people familiar with the matter. Those allegations raise questions about recruitment checks; they are distinct from the prosecutor's account of the cockpit attack.
Flydubai said it suspended flights to and from Israel in coordination with authorities while the investigation continues. The airline said it was helping affected passengers with support and alternative arrangements where possible, and would review the suspension as more information becomes available.
Al Shamsi said investigators were still examining the circumstances, motives and any related links, alongside technical tests and physical and digital evidence. WAM reported that final findings would follow completion of the necessary procedures. Saturday's announcement therefore does not close the investigation.
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