Flydubai Flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv Makes Emergency Landing in Saudi Arabia Following Cockpit Incident

Flydubai Flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv Makes Emergency Landing in Saudi Arabia Following Cockpit Incident. A Flydubai Boeing 737 MAX 8, operating flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv with approximately 174 passengers on board, was forced to make an emergency diversion to Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia following a severe security incident and unlawful interference inside the cockpit.

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More than two hours into the flight, a violent confrontation erupted in the cockpit during which the co-pilot attacked and injured Indian Captain Smit Machchhar. Amid the altercation, the aircraft transmitted emergency transponder codes 7700 (general emergency) and 7500 (unlawful interference), making a rapid descent from 34,000 feet down to approximately 16,000 feet.

Despite his injuries, Captain Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door to call for assistance. Crew members and passengers intervened to subdue the attacker and regain control of the aircraft, enabling a safe emergency landing in Tabuk. All passengers and crew landed safely, though both pilots were hospitalized in Tabuk, with Captain Machchhar listed in stable condition under medical care. The aircraft sustained minor structural damage following the rapid descent maneuvers.

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Following the event, Flydubai suspended all flights between the United Arab Emirates and Israel while authorities conduct a full investigation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commended Captain Machchhar‘s bravery, calling him a hero while praising the decisive action taken by the crew and passengers.

Vụ nghi khủng bố/cướp máy bay trên chuyến FZ1073 của Flydubai (Dubai – Tel Aviv):
• Cơ phó quốc tịch Oman bất ngờ dùng dao đâm cơ trưởng trong buồng lái, định chiếm quyền và lao máy bay xuống đất khi đang bay qua không phận Jordan. pic.twitter.com/U6rWKPpFfz

— Lưu Minh Hoàng (@luuminhhoang) October 1, 2026

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