Vance Calls for U.S. Review of Airline Security After Hijacker Attack
Vice President Vance urges review of U.S. airline security protocols after Flydubai co-pilot attack.
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Vice President JD Vance has called for a review of U.S. airline security protocols following the recent hijacking of a Flydubai flight bound for Israel. The attack, which occurred last week, involved a co-pilot who stabbed the captain and attempted to steer the plane into a nosedive with 174 passengers aboard, including 27 children.
Co-Pilot’s Background Raises Security Concerns
Vance, speaking to The Daily Wire’s White House correspondent Mary Margaret Olohan, stated that the co-pilot, Hamam al-Hammami, should never have been allowed to fly. He emphasized that the individual was known to be a problem, though not by U.S. intelligence. Vance highlighted the need for a review of U.S. procedures to ensure that individuals deemed flight risks are not granted access to the cockpit.
Possible Iranian Involvement Under Investigation
While the Trump administration is examining possible Iranian involvement, Vance noted that there is currently no conclusive evidence. He deferred the matter to CIA Director John Ratcliffe and other intelligence officials, stating that any conclusions would be made by the relevant authorities.
Attack Details and Pilot’s Past
The attack began about 90 minutes before the flight was due to reach Israel, when al-Hammami, 29, used an emergency crash axe to attack the captain. The captain managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to overpower the co-pilot. Al-Hammami had previously worked for Oman Air but was removed from his flight duties due to concerns about his radical views. He was found with extremist materials in 2024 and was reassigned to an administrative role.
Background Check Gaps
When Flydubai hired al-Hammami, the airline’s background check focused on criminal records rather than signs of radicalization. This has raised questions about the adequacy of current vetting processes for airline personnel. The incident has prompted renewed calls for stricter security measures and more comprehensive background checks for individuals working in aviation.
Source: Daily Wire
