Mid-Air Fight Forces Israeli-Bound Flight to Land in Saudi Arabia
A Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv made an unexpected landing in Saudi Arabia. This happened after an emergency on board. The flight carried about 150 Israeli passengers.
An Israeli official later said the pilots had a physical fight. This fight forced the plane to divert. The Boeing 737 plane landed safely at Tabuk airport in northwestern Saudi Arabia.
Flight data showed the plane dropped suddenly by almost 14,000 feet. This happened in less than 30 seconds. This descent occurred before the first emergency signal was sent.
The plane first sent a general emergency signal. Then, it sent another signal indicating possible unlawful interference. Minutes later, it sent the general emergency signal again.
The incident caused a big security alert in Israel. Israel and Saudi Arabia do not have official diplomatic relations. This route has become popular for Israelis since Israel and the UAE normalized ties six years ago.
Doron Spielman, an Israeli prime minister’s office spokesperson, spoke about the event. He said it was not believed to be a hijacking. He described it as a “different incident.”
A Flydubai spokesperson confirmed an “incident” on the flight to Tel Aviv. They stated the plane diverted and landed safely. All passengers were safe and accounted for.
One passenger’s mother, Yasmin Abu Kasis, shared her daughter’s experience. Her daughter Miriam reported hearing screaming. She saw a man holding a knife force a pilot to the floor. Miriam also mentioned seeing blood.
Israeli media showed a photo of a blood-stained shirt. However, Reuters could not confirm if this image was real.
The Israeli prime minister’s office released a statement. It said the situation was “under control.” They are taking all steps to bring the Israeli passengers home.
