Flydubai co-pilot allegedly planned suicide attack on Israeli airport
A Flydubai co-pilot allegedly planned to crash a passenger jet into an airport terminal in Israel in a suicide attack reminiscent of the 9/11 attacks, according to investigators. The incident, occurring at the end of September, was reportedly thwarted but has sparked serious concerns and investigations.
Investigators in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) indicated that the co-pilot, originating from Oman, intended to crash the aircraft into the terminal at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. Hamad Saif al-Shamsi, UAE's Attorney General, shared with the Emirates News Agency that the co-pilot aimed to cause mass casualties by executing a plan inspired by the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in the United States. The co-pilot's objective was reportedly to inflict as many casualties as possible.
The thwarted plan included the co-pilot conducting detailed preparations for the attack. During two prior flights to Tel Aviv, he familiarized himself with the flight paths and the airport layout. These reconnaissance missions were part of his broader plot, according to the investigators. Al-Shamsi stated that the co-pilot claimed he acted independently, with no others involved in the plan, although this assertion is under further investigation.
The Israeli government is treating the incident as a failed terrorist attack, adding pressure to unravel the full details of the plot. The co-pilot had cleared all necessary security screenings and met professional requirements before commencing his employment with Flydubai, according to Al-Shamsi. He possessed all relevant licenses and clearances, and there had been no prior indications of his extremist views or the intention to carry out a terrorist act.
There have been reports that the co-pilot was previously grounded by Oman Air, the national carrier of Oman, due to his extremist views. According to media accounts, including CNN, he lost his job with Oman Air in the past year over concerns about his views. After his dismissal, he unsuccessfully applied to Emirates before eventually joining Flydubai.
The situation escalated during a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv when the co-pilot attacked the Indian captain with a knife, injuring him. The plane went into a rapid descent, dropping approximately 4,300 meters in just 30 seconds. Despite his injuries, the captain managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to intervene and overpower the co-pilot, averting the catastrophe.
The incident has raised new questions about airline security protocols and the efficacy of background checks for airline personnel. While the specific security lapses are still being examined, aviation authorities may review and potentially tighten procedures and screening processes in response to the incident.