FlyDubai flight to Israel lands in Saudi Arabia after pilot altercation

Emergency signals and hijacking fears

The aircraft transmitted an initial distress call shortly after take-off, which prompted Israeli leaders to hold emergency security meetings. Fighter jets were dispatched to respond to the possibility of a hijacking before officials later ruled out that scenario. A second signal indicated possible unlawful interference as the plane diverted through Jordanian airspace toward Saudi Arabia.

Cause of the diversion

Israeli officials stated the incident stemmed from an altercation between the two pilots rather than a security threat. It remains unclear whether either pilot intentionally sent the emergency signals or what specifically caused the physical fight in the cockpit. All 180 passengers and crew members on board were confirmed to be safe after landing at Tabuk airport.

Government response and assessment

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held consultations with security officials regarding the flight while the military chief conducted a situational assessment. The plane landed safely in northwestern Saudi Arabia where authorities took over operations until the situation was resolved.