Flydubai Co-Pilot's Axe Attack on Captain Prevented Disaster

A Flydubai co-pilot attacked the captain with a crash axe in an attempt to take control of the aircraft, according to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Prosecutor General. The flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, carrying over 170 people, plunged more than 17,000 feet (5,200m) about two and a half hours into its journey.

Captain Smit Machchhar, despite being injured and lying on the cockpit floor, realized the plane was descending rapidly and managed to make a crucial move. His effort to open the cockpit door from the inside allowed passengers to enter and overpower the attacker, while off-duty crew members on board safely landed the plane.

Highlights

• A Flydubai co-pilot attacked the captain with an axe, attempting to take control of the aircraft.
• The plane lost over 17,000 feet in altitude during the incident.
• Passengers and off-duty crew intervened, subduing the attacker and preventing a disaster.
• Captain Smit Machchhar played a critical role in saving the plane despite being injured.
• UAE authorities are investigating whether the incident had any links to terrorist activity.

Details

During the flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, the co-pilot's assault caused the aircraft to lose altitude rapidly. Captain Machchhar, despite being stabbed, maintained his presence of mind and initiated efforts to save the plane. He stated, "I told myself to go for one last push to open the door from inside." This enabled passengers and crew to enter the cockpit and subdue the Omani national co-pilot.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reported that after being subdued, the attacker cried out, "Kill me, kill me!" Netanyahu added, "So, it's clear that he was suicidal… It looks very likely that he was going to down the plane." He also claimed the attacker "underwent Islamist radical indoctrination." The UAE state news agency confirmed that an investigation has been launched to determine if the incident was linked to any terrorist activity.

Captain Machchhar, who sustained stab wounds, was taken to a local hospital before being airlifted to Abu Dhabi, where he is reported to be in stable condition. The Indian embassy in the UAE confirmed his good health and recovery. Captain Machchhar expressed confidence, saying, "I am confident that the recovery will be there and I will become fit and healthy again."

Why it matters

This incident highlights the critical importance of aviation security and the potential misuse of emergency equipment within the cockpit. The swift and courageous intervention by passengers and crew prevented a potential catastrophe, underscoring the significance of the human factor in aviation safety. The ongoing investigation into potential terrorist links is also crucial for shaping future international aviation security protocols.