UAE Orders Probe Into Flydubai Cockpit Incident, Investigates Possible Terror Link

October 1, 2026

Abu Dhabi: The United Arab Emirates has ordered a specialised investigation into the security incident aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv before being diverted and landing safely at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia.

UAE Attorney-General Counsellor Dr. Hamad Saif Al Shamsi has ordered the formation of an investigation team comprising specialised members of the Public Prosecution to establish the circumstances, causes and motives surrounding the incident.

The investigation will also examine whether the incident was connected to any terrorist activity or purpose, or involved prior planning or direction, according to the UAE’s official Emirates News Agency (WAM).

UAE Probe to Examine Possible Terror Activity

The investigation team has begun its work in coordination with the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and other relevant authorities.

The Attorney-General directed investigators to collect information and evidence, establish the facts and determine the circumstances and motives behind the incident. Authorities will specifically assess whether there was any terrorist connection or evidence of prior planning or direction.

The UAE has also urged the public to refrain from speculation and from sharing unverified information until the investigation is completed.

The UAE said its judicial authorities have jurisdiction over the case because the aircraft is registered in the UAE and operates under the UAE flag. Under UAE law, its jurisdiction can apply to crimes committed aboard the aircraft even when they occur outside the country’s territory.

What Happened on Flydubai Flight FZ1073?

The Boeing 737 was travelling from Dubai International Airport to Tel Aviv on September 30 when a serious security incident occurred in the cockpit.

The aircraft subsequently diverted to Saudi Arabia and made an emergency landing at Tabuk Airport. The UAE’s GCAA said some crew members were injured and taken to hospital for medical treatment.

According to current reports, the aircraft experienced a sharp loss of altitude during the cockpit confrontation. Reuters reported that the plane plunged nearly 14,000 feet in less than 30 seconds before passengers and crew intervened and the aircraft was brought under control.

The Indian captain, Smit Machchhar, was injured during the incident and was receiving treatment in Saudi Arabia. The Indian Embassy said he was in stable condition.

Passengers and Crew Helped Bring Flight to Safety

Passengers and crew members intervened during the cockpit incident and helped restrain the attacker, according to reports.

The aircraft was eventually brought safely to Tabuk, where the pilots were taken to hospital. Passengers were later transported onward to Israel on replacement flights.

Flydubai has said that the underlying reasons and motives behind the incident remain unknown and has urged against premature speculation while authorities investigate.

Investigation Underway Across Countries

The UAE investigation comes as authorities in several countries examine the incident. Saudi Arabia is involved because the aircraft landed in Tabuk, while Israel has also indicated that it wants to follow and potentially participate in the investigation.

At this stage, the possible terrorist connection is an aspect being investigated, not an established finding. The UAE authorities have specifically asked the public to wait for verified findings before drawing conclusions.