UAE Orders Probe Into Flydubai Cockpit Altercation

The United Arab Emirates has ordered a specialised Public Prosecution investigation into an altercation in the cockpit of Flydubai flight FZ1073, which diverted from its Dubai-to-Tel Aviv route and landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Investigators are examining the incident’s circumstances and motives, including whether it involved terrorist activity, prior planning or outside direction; authorities have not announced findings on those questions. Flydubai said an altercation occurred in the flight deck and that crew members travelling aboard helped secure the aircraft before it diverted. The airline said passengers and crew were safe and accounted for. Saudi airport officials said the captain and copilot were injured and taken to hospital. The exact sequence of events in the cockpit has not been established by published investigative findings. The UAE Attorney General directed a specialised team of prosecutors to gather information and determine the facts, working with the General Civil Aviation Authority and other relevant authorities. The UAE has said its judicial authorities have jurisdiction because the aircraft is registered in the country and operates under its flag.