Flydubai Halts Flights to Israel After Copilot Attack

Flydubai announced the suspension of all flights to and from Israel after a serious incident on flight FZ 1073 on September 30, where a copilot allegedly stabbed the pilot midair and attempted to crash the aircraft. The Dubai-based airline stated that the suspension was coordinated with relevant authorities to allow investigators to establish the full facts surrounding the attack.

In their statement, Flydubai emphasized that the safety and wellbeing of passengers and crew is their highest priority and that the temporary suspension is intended to facilitate the investigation. They acknowledged the disruption this would cause to travelers and are working to provide support and alternative arrangements.

The airline did not specify the duration of the suspension, indicating it would be reviewed as more information becomes available. Israeli officials reported that passengers and crew managed to overpower the copilot, allowing a second pair of pilots to land the plane safely in Saudi Arabia.