A Flydubai flight en route from Dubai to Israel was diverted to Tabuk airport in northwestern Saudi Arabia after reports emerged of a physical altercation between the pilots onboard. The incident, which occurred on September 30, 2026, prompted the transmission of multiple emergency signals, according to flight tracking data.
Flight FZ1073, a Boeing 737, was traveling over Jordanian airspace when it first transmitted a general emergency signal. Minutes later, a second signal indicating “possible unlawful interference” was sent, followed by another general emergency signal before the aircraft landed safely at Tabuk.
Initial Hijacking Concerns Dismissed
The unusual signals and diversion initially sparked concerns about a potential hijacking. However, an Israeli official, speaking anonymously, later clarified to Reuters that the emergency transmissions were made following a physical fight between the flight crew. The Israeli prime minister's office subsequently stated that the incident was not believed to be a hijacking.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly held consultations regarding the flight, and military chief Eyal Zamir conducted a situational assessment with air force and other military officials, underscoring the seriousness with which the incident was initially viewed.
Airline Silent Amidst Diplomatic Context
Flydubai has not yet issued a public statement regarding the incident. The airline operates daily flights between Dubai and Tel Aviv, a route popular with Israeli nationals. The diversion is notable given that Saudi Arabia and Israel do not maintain official diplomatic relations.
It remains unclear whether either pilot intentionally transmitted the emergency signals during the alleged altercation. Investigations into the precise sequence of events and the nature of the dispute are expected.