Israel-bound flight lands in Saudi Arabia after violent incident between pilots
4 hours ago
- A Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv was diverted to Saudi Arabia after a violent altercation between the pilots, including an alleged stabbing attempt by the co-pilot.
- Israeli authorities suspect the incident may have been an attempted terrorist attack; an Israeli passenger helped restrain the co-pilot.
- The aircraft dropped 17,400 feet in two minutes and sent an emergency signal, prompting Israeli fighter jets to launch and Prime Minister Netanyahu to hold security consultations.
- The emergency landing marked a rare mass arrival of Israelis in Saudi Arabia, a country that does not recognize Israel, though airspace was opened in 2022.
- Israel is considering sending a military or civilian plane to repatriate the passengers, while Flydubai confirmed all passengers are safe.