A terrifying mid-air struggle unfolded aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv after the co-pilot allegedly stabbed Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian national, during the flight.
The aircraft then plunged thousands of feet in a matter of seconds, triggering a desperate fight to regain control. Despite being seriously injured, Captain Machchhar reportedly managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to intervene and overpower the attacker.
Several passengers rushed forward, while two other Flydubai pilots who were travelling aboard the aircraft reportedly entered the cockpit and took over the flight controls. The aircraft was safely diverted and landed at Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later praised Captain Machchhar, calling him a “true hero” and crediting his actions, along with those of the passengers and crew, with preventing a potentially catastrophic outcome.
The flight was carrying 174 people. The injured captain underwent treatment in Saudi Arabia, while the co-pilot was arrested and questioned by Saudi authorities. His motive remains under investigation.
A frightening flight that could have ended in tragedy — but the actions of the captain, passengers and fellow pilots helped bring everyone to safety.
