Flydubai Suspends Tel Aviv Flights After Incident
Flydubai has temporarily suspended all flights to Tel Aviv following the serious cockpit incident aboard flight FZ1073, saying passenger and crew safety remains its highest priority while an official investigation continues.
Flydubai Suspends Tel Aviv Flights Until Further Notice
The airline said services to Tel Aviv had been suspended at the request of authorities following the September 30 incident on a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight.
Flydubai said its teams were assisting affected passengers and helping them reach their final destinations while the suspension remains in force.
Chief Executive Ghaith Al Ghaith thanked Saudi and UAE authorities for their response and assistance following the emergency diversion.
Captain Smit Machchhar Returns to UAE
Indian Captain Smit Machchhar, who was seriously injured during the cockpit confrontation, has returned to the UAE after receiving medical clearance.
More than 170 passengers and crew aboard the aircraft were safely evacuated following its emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
The airline praised Machchhar, the flight crew, reserve pilots and passengers who assisted during the emergency and helped secure the aircraft.
Flydubai Says Investigation Must Establish Facts
Flight FZ1073 experienced a sudden loss of altitude after an alleged attack on Machchhar by his co-pilot. The injured captain managed to open the cockpit door, allowing others aboard to intervene before reserve pilots regained control.
Flydubai said a full official investigation involving relevant authorities is underway and cautioned against drawing conclusions before investigators establish the facts.
Authorities are examining the circumstances and motive behind the incident, including allegations that the co-pilot deliberately attempted to crash the aircraft.
