A pilot from Flydubai has accused the airline of gross negligence, stating 'we hired a terrorist,' in a new testimony obtained by Channel 16. The account describes the Omani co-pilot's 'strange behavior and unusual religious devoutness' before the attempted hijacking of flight FZ 1073.
This latest development comes from a Channel 16 report in which an unnamed Flydubai pilot claims the airline hired 'a terrorist' — referring to the Omani co-pilot who allegedly stabbed Captain Smit Machchhar and attempted to force the Boeing 737 into a fatal dive. The testimony describes the co-pilot's 'strange behavior and unusual religious devoutness' prior to the flight.
The attempted hijacking of Flydubai flight FZ 1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv occurred Wednesday evening. Israeli passengers subdued the co-pilot after he stabbed the captain, who was seriously injured. The aircraft was diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where the suspect is being held and questioned by Saudi authorities with Israeli coordination.
As The Zioneer reported, the investigation has revealed that the co-pilot allegedly planned to crash the aircraft into Israeli territory. The Mossad is leading Israeli coordination. The captain is out of danger, and Israeli passengers have been returning to Israel.
The new testimony raises questions about background checks and security vetting at Flydubai. The airline has previously called for parties to avoid speculation.
3 developments
- DevelopingN12 publishes cockpit footage from Flydubai flight, shows wounded pilot and passengers' arrest fears
- StrongDoctor: 'Within seconds we knew it was a terror attack' – treating stabbed Flydubai pilot
- StrongIsraeli assessment now sees Flydubai pilot as lone actor, i24 reports
- StrongFlydubai passengers tell New York Post: crew asked us to release terrorist co-pilot
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