The co-pilot accused of attacking the captain and attempting to crash a FlyDubai flight bound for Israel has been identified as Hamam al-Hammami, an Omani national, according to Saudi state media and sources who spoke to CNN.
Al-Hammami was born in the United Arab Emirates to an Omani father and Syrian mother and had lived for several years in the UAE, one source confirmed. A regional diplomat told CNN that the suspect had been withdrawn from flight training over concerns about his extremist beliefs, and was subsequently assigned to another position at Oman's flag carrier.
UAE prosecutor details the attack
The UAE prosecutor general said the co-pilot of flight FZ1073 attempted to carry out a 'terrorist' attack during the flight, according to Tala Ramadan, Reuters' Middle East correspondent, citing UAE state agency WAM. The prosecutor general revealed the co-pilot assaulted the pilot within the cockpit using an axe and tried to seize control of the plane.
Investigations continue to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, the underlying motives, and any connected links, while examining physical and digital evidence, he added.
Pilot hailed as hero
The pilot who was attacked has been identified as Indian national Smit Machchhar, who has logged nearly 10,000 hours in the air. Passenger pilot Yaniv Hayoun helped to land the plane and was welcomed back to Israel as a hero, blood-soaked, according to reports.
FlyDubai stated it was unable to provide comment while authorities probe the incident. Flydubai's chief executive officer, Ghaith Al Ghaith, confirmed: "I am relieved to confirm that all 172 passengers and crew on board are safe and being cared for."
"This includes our Captain, who has now returned to the UAE following medical clearance. We will continue to provide everyone affected with the support they need," he said, adding: "I want to express my deep gratitude to our crew, our Captain, and the pilots who secured the aircraft and landed it safely. I extend our sincere gratitude to the passengers on board who assisted our crew during a challenging situation."
Flights to Tel Aviv suspended
Al Ghaith also stated: "At the request of the authorities, we have temporarily suspended operations to Tel Aviv until further notice. Our teams are working around the clock to support passengers affected by disruptions and help them reach their final destinations."
He added: "I know there are many questions about what happened on board FZ 1073. A full official investigation, led by the relevant authorities and fully supported by flydubai, is underway. It is important that we allow this process to establish the facts."
Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu said of Captain Machchhar: "He saved the lives of 174 people, including Israeli citizens and other nationals. I wish Captain Machchhar a speedy and full recovery. He is a true hero." Netanyahu also met one of the passengers, Yaniv, whom the PM said "broke into the cockpit".
