‘Crazy’ FlyDubai landing explained by Israeli pilot, who offers steps to prevent future crises
A FlyDubai flight landed safely in Saudi Arabia after its captain was allegedly stabbed by the co-pilot during flight, causing the aircraft to plunge more than 14,000 feet in 30 seconds. Former Israeli Air Force pilot Eliran Almog described the survival and emergency landing as remarkable, and argued that the incident shows why airlines and regulators should strengthen how they identify risks.
The captain, Capt. Smit Machchhar, was seriously injured but opened the cockpit door, allowing Israeli passengers to help subdue the co-pilot, Hamam al-Hammami, officials said. Another FlyDubai crew aboard the aircraft stabilised it and made the emergency landing despite tail damage. Almog called for ongoing screening of pilots’ psychological wellbeing and possible security risks, as well as better attention to insider cybersecurity threats; investigations are under way, while public claims about alleged outside influences have not been established in the article.
- A FlyDubai plane survived a 14,000-foot plunge after an alleged cockpit attack.
- The injured captain and passengers helped subdue the co-pilot.
- An aviation expert urged continuous pilot screening and stronger insider security.
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FlyDubai is a Dubai-based airline, and its pilots are responsible for controlling an aircraft and responding to emergencies. The captain leads the flight deck crew, while the co-pilot shares flying duties and can take control if needed. A sudden loss of altitude or damage to the aircraft can leave the crew with little time to act.
The incident has drawn attention to how airlines and regulators assess risks involving people with access to the cockpit and aircraft systems. Eliran Almog, a former Israeli Air Force pilot, has called for regular checks on pilots’ wellbeing and greater attention to security threats, including cyber risks. Investigators are examining what happened; claims about outside influence have not been established.
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