Flydubai pilot arrested after alleged mid-air stabbing, crash attempt

A Flydubai pilot has been arrested after allegedly stabbing another pilot and apparently attempting to crash an Israel-bound aircraft travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said.

According to BBC News, the aircraft plunged about 17,000 feet in less than two minutes before being diverted and landing safely at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia.

“During the flight, as they were approaching Israel, one of the pilots stabbed the other pilot and, apparently, tried to crash the plane with its passengers on board,” Netanyahu said.

Passengers and crew reportedly entered the cockpit and subdued the alleged attacker, while relief pilots helped stabilise and land the aircraft.

“I salute these heroes who demonstrated extraordinary resourcefulness and courage. They saved many lives and prevented a major disaster,” Netanyahu added.

Flydubai confirmed that “an altercation occurred in the flight deck” and said all passengers and crew were safe.

The airline said the motives behind the incident remain unknown pending formal investigation.