Full Breakdown
Attempted Hijacking of Flydubai Flight to Tel Aviv Raises International Security Scrutiny
By Drooid · · How we work
Incident Overview
On September 30 2026 a flydubai Boeing 737 MAX 8 bound for Tel Aviv was attacked by co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami, a 29-year-old Omani national, who used a crash axe to stab captain Smit Machchhar and tried to seize the controls. Passengers and a reserve pilot overpowered the attacker, and the jet made an emergency landing at a regional airport in north-western Saudi Arabia. The flight carried 182 people.
Background & Context
Al-Hammami completed a three-year distance-learning program in aviation management in 2023 and briefly worked for Oman Air in 2024, where he was flagged as a security risk for possessing extremist material. He transferred to flydubai in February 2026 during a recruitment drive that lowered entry requirements. Investigations traced his overseas education to RMIT University in Melbourne (studies ended 2017) and flight training in New Zealand from November 2018 to May 2019.
Data & Statistics
- Passengers: 182
- Aircraft: flydubai Boeing 737 MAX 8
- Descent: nearly 14,000 ft in less than 30 seconds (passenger accounts)
- Crew: captain Smit Machchhar (Indian), co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami (Omani)
On-the-Ground Reports
Captain Machchhar, injured by a blow to the head, unlocked the cockpit door, allowing passengers to enter. Israeli plumber Yaniv Hayoun helped steady the controls until a reserve pilot took over.
Official Statements & Responses
UAE Attorney-General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi said al-Hammami acted alone, intended to crash the plane into Ben Gurion Airport, and was inspired by Al Qaeda’s September 11 attacks. Flydubai announced a temporary suspension of flights to Tel Aviv and pledged full cooperation with authorities. New Zealand Police Assistant Commissioner Michael Johnson confirmed al-Hammami’s presence in New Zealand for flight training.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Prior Ban: Some sources say al-Hammami was banned by Oman Air for extremist views; others note he remained in an administrative role.
- Background Checks: Flydubai is reported to have hired him without thorough vetting, though the airline claims it followed standard procedures.
- Planned Timing: The Wall Street Journal cited al-Hammami’s admission that he originally intended to strike in July, while Israeli officials focus on the September 30 attempt.
- Alone or Accomplices: Al-Hammami confessed to acting alone, but investigators continue to verify the claim.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We have seen over the years the availability of extremist literature in religious bookstores, the presence of preachers of hate and violence and the capacity for those living in Australia to fall under the sway of recruiters and nefarious street preachers,” — Alex Ryvchin, co-chief executive, Executive Council of Australian Jewry
- “We recognise that there are many questions at this stage; however, the circumstances surrounding the incident are still under investigation,” — News, FlyDubai
- “He said, 'Kill me please, kill me please,'" Musaev said.” — Dr. Shota Musaev
- “ "He came to crash the plane with all passengers on board," Netanyahu said in a video released by his office.” — Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli Prime Minister
- “Police can confirm the co-pilot was in New Zealand to complete a portion of his flight training for a UK-based company, no longer operating in New Zealand,” — Michael Johnson, Police Assistant Commissioner
What’s Next
UAE authorities will complete technical examinations of the aircraft and digital evidence, with final findings to be announced later. Australian and New Zealand police continue separate inquiries into al-Hammami’s overseas activities. Flydubai’s suspension of Tel Aviv flights remains in effect pending investigation outcomes.