Passengers Help Stop Mid-Air Attack After Plane Plunges 14,000 Feet

October 3, 2026 — Passengers and crew members helped prevent a potentially catastrophic incident aboard a flydubai flight after the co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain and the aircraft suddenly plunged thousands of feet during the journey from Dubai to Tel Aviv.

A Sudden Emergency in the Cockpit

Flight FZ1073 was carrying more than 170 people when the emergency unfolded on September 30. According to reports, the co-pilot attacked the captain inside the cockpit and the aircraft rapidly lost altitude.

Reuters reported that the plane dropped nearly 14,000 feet in less than 30 seconds. The sudden descent caused alarm among passengers, many of whom initially believed they were experiencing severe turbulence.

The Captain Managed to Open the Cockpit Door

Despite being injured, the captain managed to open the cockpit door. Passengers and crew members then rushed forward and helped restrain the co-pilot.

Two off-duty pilots who were traveling as passengers also became involved. They helped regain control of the aircraft and assisted with the emergency landing.

The Plane Landed Safely in Saudi Arabia

The aircraft was diverted to Tabuk in northwestern Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. The co-pilot was taken into custody by Saudi authorities.

The passengers later continued their journey to Israel on another aircraft. Several passengers described the experience as extremely frightening and credited the captain, crew and fellow passengers with helping prevent a disaster.

Investigation Remains Underway

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates are investigating the incident. Officials have described the attack as a serious security incident, while the exact motive remains under investigation.

Flydubai has also urged caution against speculation while investigators work to establish what happened and why.

The incident has drawn international attention because a commercial aircraft carrying more than 170 people was brought back under control after a violent confrontation inside the cockpit.

Sources

Reuters — reporting on the incident aboard flydubai Flight FZ1073 and accounts from passengers.

Associated Press — coverage of the cockpit attack and investigation.

People — interview with Captain Smit Machchhar following the incident.