UAE Labels Flydubai Hijack Attempt as Terror Attack
UAE authorities call the axe attack on a flydubai flight an attempted terror attack, citing strict religious views of the co-pilot.
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UAE authorities have officially labeled the recent axe attack on a flydubai flight as an ‘attempted terror attack,’ following an incident that occurred on September 30th. The attack, which took place on flight FZ1073 bound for Israel, involved a co-pilot who attempted to seize control of the aircraft from Captain Smit Machchhar.
Incident Details and Response
According to UAE Prosecutor General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, the incident was described as an ‘attempted terror attack,’ marking the first official acknowledgment by Emirati authorities of the nature of the event. The co-pilot, identified as an Omani national named Hammam Al-hammami, used a cockpit crash axe during the attack. Despite sustaining injuries, Captain Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing others to enter and assist in subduing the attacker. This swift action ultimately saved the lives of all 170 people on board.
Background and Context
Al-hammami’s strict religious views, including a refusal to shake hands with women, were noted by a colleague of the accused. These details have been shared in reports, providing further insight into the potential motivations behind the attack. The UAE’s statement also follows a video call in which Captain Machchhar, an Indian national, recounted the attempted hijacking to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday.
Broader Implications
The incident has sparked broader discussions about security measures and the potential for extremist activities within the aviation sector. The UAE’s designation of the attack as an attempted terror act highlights the seriousness of the situation and the need for enhanced security protocols. It also aligns with recent global concerns about similar incidents, such as the previous Flydubai hijack attempt that drew international attention.
Source: OANN
