Brief
FlyDubai co‑pilot identified as Omani security risk after cockpit attack
UAE authorities say the 29‑year‑old Omani co‑pilot had been suspended by Oman Air in 2024 for extremist material before joining FlyDubai.
By Felo News Desk · Published
UAE Attorney General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi confirmed on Saturday that the co‑pilot who assaulted the captain of a FlyDubai flight bound for Israel had previously been identified as a security risk by Oman Air, according to senior intelligence and law‑enforcement officials cited by ABC News.
What happened
The incident occurred on Wednesday when the FlyDubai aircraft, en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv, descended rapidly after the co‑pilot used a crash axe to attack the captain in the cockpit. Passengers and crew subdued the attacker, allowing the plane to land safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. The co‑pilot, identified as 29‑year‑old Hamam Al Hammami, was transferred from Saudi Arabia to the United Arab Emirates on Thursday and is said to be cooperating with investigators.
What the reports add
Officials told ABC News that Al Hammami worked as a co‑pilot trainee for Oman Air in 2024 and was found in possession of extremist materials. Although flagged, he was moved to an administrative role rather than being dismissed. The sources said the airline later allowed him to continue flying, eventually joining FlyDubai as a first officer. The attorney general said investigations are ongoing to determine how Al Hammami was permitted to fly for FlyDubai and to assess any broader terrorist links.
What was said
UAE Attorney General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi said the co‑pilot "attempted to carry out a terrorist act" and that technical examinations of physical and digital evidence are underway. FlyDubai said it recognises many unanswered questions and will continue to support the investigation, adding that it has temporarily suspended operations to Tel Aviv. Representatives for Oman Air and the Omani Embassy did not respond to requests for comment.
How it came about
Earlier reporting by Felo News noted the cockpit stabbing on a FlyDubai flight to Tel Aviv and highlighted concerns about insider threats in aviation security. The airline’s earlier statements described the event as a security incident pending investigation. This new information about Al Hammami’s prior flagging by Oman Air adds a layer to the ongoing inquiry into airline hiring and vetting practices.
Key facts
- The co‑pilot was identified as 29‑year‑old Omani national Hamam Al Hammami. (news.yahoo.com)
- Al Hammami was suspended by Oman Air in 2024 after extremist material was found. (news.yahoo.com)
- He used a crash axe to assault the captain on a FlyDubai flight to Israel. (news.yahoo.com)
- The aircraft landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, after passengers and crew subdued the attacker. (news.yahoo.com)
- UAE Attorney General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi confirmed the terrorist nature of the act. (news.yahoo.com)
Sources
- [1] news.yahoo.com — originally reported as “Suspect in FlyDubai incident was previously identified as security risk: Officials”
