Flydubai Co-Pilot's Alarming Attempt to Crash Flight at Ben Gurion Airport

New details have emerged regarding a harrowing incident involving a co-pilot aboard a Flydubai flight destined for Tel Aviv, who allegedly plotted to crash the aircraft into the passenger terminal at Ben Gurion Airport. According to the UAE Attorney General, Dr. Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, the co-pilot, identified as Hemam Al Hemami, intended to inflict maximum casualties in this premeditated act of violence.

On the day of the incident, the co-pilot reportedly attacked the captain using an emergency axe within the cockpit. The captain, who was scheduled to pilot the return flight, noticed abnormal behavior at the cockpit door and managed to enter using a security code. With the assistance of a cabin crew member and several passengers, the injured captain was rescued while successfully subduing the assailant.

The investigation revealed that Al Hemami's radicalization began in 2017 during his studies in Australia, where he was exposed to extremist content glorifying terrorist organizations and suicide attacks. His obsession with the September 11 attacks reportedly fueled his intentions, prompting him to prepare for this sinister plan through the consumption of incendiary materials and boxing training.

Furthermore, it has come to light that Al Hemami had previously exploited two prior flights to Tel Aviv to familiarize himself with the flight path and airport layout, ultimately attempting to execute his plan on this third visit. Before joining Flydubai in January 2026, he worked for Oman Air and Royal Air Maroc. The prosecution noted that he had met all professional and security requirements upon hiring, with no indicators of his malicious intentions detected at that time.

The accused has confessed to planning and attempting the attack, claiming he acted alone. The UAE authorities are continuing their investigation to determine whether he had any accomplices or other connections, as well as analyzing recordings and technical reports related to the case.

As reported by i24news.tv.