A serious security incident aboard a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv has triggered an extensive investigation after UAE authorities said the co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain with a cockpit crash axe and attempted to take control of the aircraft.

The incident occurred aboard Flight FZ1073 while the aircraft was travelling toward Israel. The flight was subsequently diverted to Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. All passengers and crew members were reported safe, although members of the flight crew suffered injuries.

According to the UAE Attorney General, the co-pilot attacked the captain inside the flight deck before attempting to gain control of the aircraft’s flight controls. Investigators have classified the incident as an attempted terrorist act while continuing to examine the circumstances and motive.

The captain, Indian pilot Smit Machchhar, reportedly managed to open the cockpit door after being attacked, enabling other people aboard the aircraft to intervene. Passengers and a reserve pilot helped overpower the attacker and stabilize the aircraft during the emergency.

The UAE investigation is examining physical and digital evidence and is also seeking to determine whether the incident was planned, whether the co-pilot acted alone and whether any other individuals or organisations were connected to the incident.

The incident has raised questions about aviation security and the procedures used to screen and monitor flight crew members. However, authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation while the investigation remains underway. The UAE civil aviation regulator has stressed that official findings should be awaited before drawing further conclusions.

Flydubai has cooperated with the investigation and temporarily suspended its Tel Aviv operations at the request of authorities while the security incident is examined. The airline has also praised the crew and passengers who helped bring the situation under control.

The case has attracted international attention because the aircraft was carrying passengers between the UAE and Israel and because the incident occurred inside the cockpit during flight. Investigators are now focused on establishing the complete sequence of events and determining the motive behind the alleged attack.