Flydubai Co-Pilot Planned Ben Gurion Crash: Reports
Fresh details have emerged in the investigation into the flydubai FZ1073 cockpit attack, with reports alleging that Omani co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami intended to crash the aircraft into Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport or another target after killing Captain Smit Machchhar.
Co-Pilot Allegedly Planned Ben Gurion Airport Attack
Investigators are examining claims that al-Hammami planned the attack before joining flydubai and deliberately chose an airline operating flights to Tel Aviv.
He reportedly intended to kill Machchhar while the aircraft was approaching Israel, continue the flight normally to avoid raising suspicion and then crash the plane during the final approach.
Reports have also alleged that alternative targets included a Tel Aviv skyscraper or a US military installation in Jordan if the Ben Gurion plan could not be carried out.
Captain Smit Machchhar Foiled Alleged Plot
The plan failed after Machchhar fought back despite suffering serious injuries during the cockpit attack.
The aircraft plunged rapidly after the co-pilot allegedly interfered with the controls, but Machchhar managed to send distress signals and open the cockpit door.
Crew members and passengers then restrained al-Hammami, while two off-duty pilots helped regain control and diverted the Boeing 737 MAX 8 to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia.
Security Failures Under Investigation
The case has intensified scrutiny of airline vetting and intelligence-sharing procedures.
Reports indicate that al-Hammami had previously faced concerns over extremist views while employed in Oman. Investigators are also examining his online activity and whether he acted alone.
Authorities have not publicly established any organisational link to a terrorist group, and investigations in the UAE and other jurisdictions remain ongoing.
