An Israel-bound flydubai flight from Dubai was forced to make an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, following a physical altercation between the pilots in mid-air. Flight FZ1073 diverted over Jordanian airspace after sending emergency signals and suffering a sudden, sharp altitude drop.
Flightradar24 data indicated that the Boeing 737 rapidly descended nearly 14,000 feet in under 30 seconds before transmitting emergency codes including one signaling potential unlawful interference. The distress signals triggered an immediate security alert at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport. However an Israeli government spokesperson clarified that the incident was not a hijacking.
An Israeli official confirmed that the distress signals were sent following a physical fight inside the cockpit. Passenger accounts described scenes of panic and blood inside the cabin with reports indicating a pilot was injured during the altercation before off-duty pilots or passengers intervened to stabilize the aircraft.
The plane landed safely at Tabuk International Airport and flydubai confirmed all 150 passengers were safe and accounted for. The Israeli Prime Minister's Office stated the situation is under control and arrangements are being made to return the passengers to Israel.
