The United Arab Emirates has classified the UAE Flydubai terrorism incident involving a flight bound for Israel as an act of terrorism after the aircraft made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
The UAE Prosecutor General said the co-pilot allegedly attacked the pilot with an axe inside the cockpit. The co-pilot then reportedly attempted to take control of the aircraft after the attack.
According to the UAE prosecutor, the co-pilot had allegedly planned the act in advance. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and are examining the possible motives and connections involved.
Investigators are also reviewing physical and digital evidence linked to the UAE Flydubai terrorism incident. Officials said the inquiry aims to establish the circumstances of the incident and determine whether the co-pilot had any links to other individuals or groups.
The incident involved an Emirati flight operated by Flydubai that was travelling from Dubai to Israel. The aircraft was diverted and made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia following the incident inside the cockpit.
The airline said an investigation into the incident was ongoing. A spokesperson said the company was not in a position to comment while authorities continued examining the circumstances surrounding the UAE Flydubai terrorism incident.
According to a foreign news agency, the co-pilot allegedly involved in the incident was identified as Omani national Humam Al-Hamami. Authorities have yet to disclose further details about the investigation or its findings.
