Mid-Air Emergency: A Flydubai flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv was diverted to Saudi Arabia Wednesday after an apparent cockpit attack sent the Boeing 737 into a rapid descent and briefly raised fears of a hijacking.
Israeli officials said the co-pilot allegedly stabbed the captain and apparently attempted to take control of the aircraft. Passengers and crew members intervened, while additional pilots traveling aboard the aircraft helped regain control. The plane eventually landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
A Terryifying Descent: Flight-tracking data showed the aircraft plunged more than 14,000 feet in a matter of seconds before stabilizing. An unlawful-interference emergency code was also transmitted, prompting Israel to scramble fighter jets amid fears the aircraft could have been hijacked.
Flydubai confirmed that an incident occurred in the flight deck and said the aircraft was secured by crew members traveling aboard the flight. The airline said all passengers and crew were safe and urged people to avoid speculation while the investigation continues.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the co-pilot apparently attempted to crash the aircraft. Israeli authorities are investigating the incident, including whether terrorism was involved. The suspect was reportedly arrested by Saudi authorities.
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Read our coverage of Israel’s security tensions with Iran, regional missile threats and Middle East security, and rising tensions involving Israel and Iran.
Prophecy Watch: Matthew 24:6 speaks of wars and continuing turmoil among nations. This aviation incident does not prove biblical prophecy is being fulfilled, but Christians may view continuing global instability as a reminder to remain watchful.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened? A cockpit attack forced a Flydubai flight to divert.
Where did it land? Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Were passengers hurt? No passengers were reported injured.
Was Israel attacked? No. Israeli authorities investigated a possible attempted hijacking.
Is the motive known? Authorities have not established the motive.
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