UAE Attorney-General Reveals Details of FlydubaiIncident Investigation
The Public Prosecution has concluded its investigation into the attempted hijacking of flydubai flight FZ1073, revealing a complex case of premeditated extremism and the extraordinary heroism of crew members and passengers.
Counsellor Dr. Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, Attorney-General of the United Arab Emirates, has announced significant findings from the Public Prosecution’s comprehensive investigation into the incident involving flydubai flight FZ1073, which was scheduled to operate from Dubai to Tel Aviv on 30 September 2026.
The investigation has revealed that the aircraft’s 29-year-old Omani co-pilot had meticulously planned a premeditated act intended to seize control of the aircraft and direct it towards Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, motivated by extremist ideology and a desire to cause significant loss of life.
Investigators traced the suspect’s ideological development, establishing that signs of his drift towards extremism first emerged in 2017 whilst he was studying in Australia. During this formative period, he became influenced by takfiri ideology through engagement with extremist literature and online content glorifying terrorist organisations. This influence evolved into the adoption of violent ideologies, with particular inspiration drawn from historical attacks. The pursuit of an aviation career emerged directly from his intention to execute such an operation.
The suspect’s professional background revealed employment with several airlines across different nations. He worked for Oman Air from 2020 to 2024, subsequently joined Royal Air Maroc in early 2025, and moved to flydubai in January 2026. The investigation confirmed that all standard professional and security requirements, including pilot licensing and comprehensive background checks, had been satisfied, yet none revealed indications of his extremist ideologies or criminal intent.
Prior to the incident, the suspect had undertaken two previous flights to Tel Aviv to familiarise himself with the route and airport infrastructure, representing careful preparation for his intended action on 30 September 2026.
During the critical moments aboard the aircraft, the suspect attacked the captain inside the cockpit using an emergency axe. The captain demonstrated remarkable courage in resisting the assault and attempting to summon assistance. A returning flight’s captain, who was aboard the aircraft, observed unusual activity at the cockpit door and gained entry using the access code. Upon witnessing the attack, he immediately intervened, supported by a cabin crew member and several passengers. Their coordinated action successfully restrained the suspect and ensured the captain received assistance. The returning flight’s captain and co-pilot regained aircraft control, diverted the route, and achieved a safe landing at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia.
Forensic medical examination confirmed that the captain sustained injuries concentrated upon the head, a vital region, consistent with an implement matching the emergency axe’s characteristics. The medical findings corroborated statements provided by the suspect, the captain, and multiple witnesses.
The suspect has provided a comprehensive confession detailing his motives and the planning and execution stages, whilst asserting he acted independently. The Public Prosecution continues examining evidence to verify whether accomplices or additional connections existed. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities complete their review of technical recordings and reports.
Source: WAM