MANILA – Saudi Arabia has launched an aviation safety investigation into the emergency involving a flydubai passenger jet that was forced to divert to the kingdom following a violent incident inside the cockpit.
Saudi Arabia’s National Transport Safety Center is examining the circumstances surrounding flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on Sept. 30 when it made an emergency landing at Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Tabuk. Saudi Gazette
Saudi authorities said a preliminary investigation found that the co-pilot assaulted the captain during the flight, leaving both pilots injured. The aircraft landed safely after Saudi authorities cleared it for an emergency landing. Anadolu Ajansı
Flydubai has confirmed that an altercation occurred in the flight deck and said other crew members aboard the aircraft intervened to secure the plane. The airline said a full official investigation remains underway. Emirates 24|7
The aircraft transmitted emergency signals during the incident, including codes associated with a general emergency and unlawful interference, before diverting to Tabuk. Anadolu Ajansı
Saudi investigators are collecting information and evidence and assessing the aviation safety aspects of the incident in coordination with other authorities. A separate UAE investigation is examining the circumstances and motives behind the cockpit incident, including whether it was connected to terrorist activity or involved prior planning. Saudi Gazette
Flydubai has since suspended its Tel Aviv operations while the investigation continues.
