Erroneous Report Sparks FZ1081 Scare
An erroneous flight-tracking update on Wednesday briefly suggested a second Flydubai flight to Tel Aviv, FZ1081, had diverted and returned to Dubai. This false alarm emerged just hours after another Flydubai service, FZ1073, was genuinely diverted to Saudi Arabia following a severe mid-air incident. Latest information confirmed that flight FZ1081 maintained its scheduled course and did not deviate from its planned route to Tel Aviv.
The incorrect data led to heightened attention, especially given the preceding events. Despite the brief confusion, there was no indication that the Boeing 737 operating FZ1081 ever turned back or diverted, confirming it was simply a data error.
Earlier FZ1073 Incident Involved Pilot Confrontation
The FZ1081 scare followed a confirmed serious incident aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, also en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv. This flight departed Dubai at 03:05 UTC and was cruising at 34,000 feet when passengers reportedly heard screams emanating from the cockpit.
According to Israeli media reports, passengers later observed blood and were informed that one pilot had allegedly been stabbed with a pocketknife. Accounts cited by Israeli media indicated that passengers moved to assist crew members during the confrontation. One passenger reportedly told Channel 12 that screaming preceded the cockpit door opening and that blood was visible. The precise sequence of events inside the cockpit has not yet been independently established.
Allegations of Attempted Aircraft Control
One of the most serious allegations is that a pilot may have attempted to seize control of the aircraft with the intention of crashing it. Israeli media, citing officials and passenger accounts, suggested indications that the co-pilot might have tried to take control. Another version of events claimed the other pilot resisted, with passengers aiding in the struggle. A senior Israeli official reportedly told Channel 12 that a major disaster might have been averted and that the co-pilot was under investigation. However, these remain allegations, and Flydubai has not publicly confirmed these details or provided a full account of the cockpit events.
Dramatic Flight Data from FZ1073
Flightradar24 data revealed dramatic altitude changes for FZ1073. Around 05:21 UTC, the aircraft began a steep descent, followed by a sharp ascent and another rapid drop. By approximately 05:33 UTC, the aircraft stabilized its flight around 15,000 feet, with its altitude and ground speed oscillating significantly thereafter.
During the incident, the aircraft transmitted emergency codes. At 05:28:48 UTC, it began squawking 7700, the international code for a general emergency, while near the Saudi-Jordanian border. At 05:35 UTC, it switched to 7500, the code for unlawful interference, raising the possibility of a hijacking. Israeli authorities reportedly scrambled fighter jets. The flight then turned west, briefly entered Jordanian airspace, before executing a 180-degree turn towards Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. It later reverted to 7700 as it approached Tabuk, landing safely at 06:58 UTC.
Investigation Underway
The Boeing 737 ultimately landed safely at Tabuk Airport. Flydubai confirmed an incident had occurred, stating all passengers and crew were safe. The reported pilot confrontation, alleged stabbing, and claims of an attempt to crash the aircraft remain subject to ongoing investigation.