Breaking

Omani national Hamam al Hammami, identified as the co-pilot of a FlyDubai aircraft, attacked the flight’s captain with the cockpit’s crash axe in what authorities are treating as a hijacking attempt or sabotage incident. According to Times of Israel and Jerusalem Post reporting, the co-pilot had previously studied at a UK university and held an Australian student visa from 2014, studying in the country between 2015 and 2017.

An Italian newspaper analysis reported by Ynet suggests the co-pilot may have disabled the aircraft’s engines mid-flight. Two Boeing 737 pilots analysing video footage identified emergency lights being activated whilst the aircraft was airborne, indicating the engines may have been shut down after the co-pilot pushed the throttles forward with full force.

The incident represents a major security breach at a commercial airline and raises questions about vetting procedures for aviation personnel with international backgrounds.

Sources: Times of Israel, Jerusalem Post, Ynet