Supplemental Info:
SITREP
Possible Attempted Hijacking Flydubai FZ1073 (B737 MAX 8) Dubai - Tel Aviv ~180 passengers (mostly Israeli)
About two hours into flight over northern Saudi Arabia, the aircraft executed a rapid descent of roughly 17,000 ft, transmitted 7700 (inflight emergency) then 7500 (unlawful interference), briefly entered Jordanian airspace, reversed course, and landed safely at Tabuk (TUU) ~0645–0658Z. Israeli fighters were scrambled. Both flight-deck crew were injured and hospitalized. One has been arrested. No passenger fatalities reported.
Flydubai says an altercation occurred on the flight deck; on-duty company crew traveling as passengers secured the aircraft and diverted to Tabuk. Two replacement aircraft have been sent to Tabuk. Motives remain under investigation; the airline cautions against speculation.
Israeli officials assess a possible terror attempt: the co-pilot, reported as Omani, allegedly stabbed the captain and sought to seize or crash the jet. Passengers and crew subdued the attacker. Israel’s PMO said the situation is under control and that passengers are being returned; some reports note reluctance to board a non-Israeli relief aircraft. Saudi authorities reportedly blocking El Al aircraft from being used to repatriate passengers. Crew nationality versus UAE–Israel aviation terms is under review. Flydubai operations to Israel may face temporary restrictions. Saudi and other authorities are investigating.
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