Flydubai FZ1073: How crew and passengers foiled cockpit attack

A co-pilot on flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv attempted a terrorist attack on September 30, assaulting the captain with a crash axe before being subdued by crew and passengers, who landed the plane safely in Saudi Arabia. UAE investigators confirmed the attack on October 3, stating the co-pilot struck Captain Smit Machchhar and tried to seize flight controls. Machchhar, despite severe injuries, opened the cockpit door twice, enabling passengers to restrain the attacker with a headphone cord and zip ties. The aircraft was diverted to Tabuk Airport, where an unidentified off-duty pilot aboard secured the landing. Authorities continue investigating the motive, with final findings pending, while praising the crew's swift response that prevented more serious consequences.