Flydubai flight to Israel lands in Saudi Arabia after pilot fight
A Flydubai passenger jet bound for Israel made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, on Wednesday following a reported altercation between the pilots.
Emergency signals and security response
The aircraft transmitted distress signals indicating possible unlawful interference before diverting from its route over Jordanian airspace. Israeli officials initially dispatched fighter jets to respond to the alert but later ruled out a hijacking attempt. An anonymous Israeli official stated that the emergency calls were sent after the pilots got into a physical fight.
Flight details and passenger count
The Boeing 737 MAX 8 was carrying 180 passengers from Dubai to Ben Gurion Airport when it landed at Tabuk airport. Flight tracking data shows the plane sent a general emergency signal before transmitting the specific unlawful interference alert several minutes later. The Israeli prime minister's office confirmed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held consultations regarding the incident.
Investigation into pilot altercation
Details regarding the specific nature of the pilots' dispute were not immediately clear to authorities. Officials indicated they would establish a clearer picture once the flight arrived in Saudi Arabia. Flydubai was not available for comment when asked about the situation.
2 outlets, different leads
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Middle East Eye
Israel-bound flight makes emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after 'pilot altercation'
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Business Recorder
Israel-bound flight diverted to Saudi Arabia after brawl between pilots, Israeli official says
Reported by
2 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.