Brief
Flydubai flight denied landing in Saudi and Jordan after cockpit attack
Passengers subdued a stabbing pilot, but Saudi and Jordanian controllers initially refused the emergency landing.
By Felo News Desk · Published
nypost.com reported that Flydubai Flight 1073, en route to Tel Aviv, was initially denied landing clearance by Saudi Arabia and Jordan despite a Mayday call from the cabin.
What happened
The co‑pilot allegedly attacked Captain Smit Machchhar, stabbing him in the head, arm and torso. Passengers broke into the cockpit, helped the injured pilot regain control and forced the aircraft to descend. Off‑duty pilots who took over were told to divert to Jordan, but Jordan’s military also refused clearance, sending the plane back toward Saudi airspace.
What the reports add
According to the same outlet, Saudi controllers finally allowed the aircraft to head for Tabuk Airport, where it landed safely. Ambulances awaited at Ben Gurion Airport for the rescued passengers, who were later flown to Tel Aviv. Indian officials confirmed the pilot was in stable condition.
What was said
The source who heard the Mayday call told the Associated Press that a trembling voice asked Saudi air traffic control for permission to land.
Key facts
- Flydubai Flight 1073 was denied landing clearance by Saudi Arabia and Jordan despite an emergency Mayday call. (nypost.com)
- Captain Smit Machchhar was stabbed by the co‑pilot and sustained serious injuries. (nypost.com)
- Passengers stormed the cockpit and helped the pilot regain control before the plane diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. (nypost.com)
- The aircraft landed safely in Tabuk and the pilot was taken to a Saudi hospital in stable condition. (nypost.com)
Sources
- [1] nypost.com — originally reported as “Saudi Arabia and Jordan denied flydubai flight clearance to land despite a terrifying mayday call”
