Abu Dhabi | October 5, 2026
The Omani co-pilot accused of attacking the captain of a Flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv reportedly told investigators that he had planned to crash the aircraft into Ben Gurion Airport in what investigators are examining as a possible 9/11-style attack.
According to reports cited by NDTV and Israeli media, Hamam al-Hammami allegedly planned to continue the flight normally after incapacitating the captain, obtain the necessary landing clearances and then deliberately crash the aircraft into an airport building or aircraft.
Attack Was Thwarted by Captain and Passengers
The incident occurred on September 30 aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
Al-Hammami allegedly attacked Indian Captain Smit Machchhar with a crash axe while the aircraft was approaching Israel. Despite his injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and off-duty pilots to intervene and restrain the co-pilot.
The aircraft was eventually diverted and made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Reports Say Attack Was Planned Earlier
Israeli media reports cited by NDTV say al-Hammami had allegedly considered carrying out the attack earlier in July but postponed it because of his relationship with a crew member.
Investigators are also reported to be examining whether his previous flights to Israel were used to gather information about the airport and flight operations. These details remain part of the ongoing investigation.
Previous Concerns About the Co-Pilot
The case has also raised questions about the co-pilot’s previous aviation history.
Reports say al-Hammami had earlier trained with an Omani airline but was subsequently removed from flying duties following concerns over extremist material and views. He reportedly later joined Flydubai. Omani authorities have said they were not consulted about his background when he was recruited by subsequent employers.
The incident has prompted questions about international aviation security procedures and how previous concerns about the co-pilot were handled.
Investigation Continues
Authorities in the UAE, Israel and Saudi Arabia are continuing to investigate the incident, including the alleged motive, planning and recruitment history of the co-pilot.
The latest reports have also prompted Israel to order a broader review of security arrangements for foreign civil aviation operating to the country.
The reported details of the alleged attack plan have not yet been independently established in a public court finding, and investigators are continuing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
