UAE REVEALS NEW DETAILS: FLYDUBAI CO-PILOT ATTACKED CAPTAIN WITH EMERGENCY AXE IN ATTEMPTED HIJACKING
UAE Reveals New Details: Flydubai Co-Pilot Used Emergency Axe in Attempted Aircraft Takeover
ABU DHABI — The United Arab Emirates has disclosed further details concerning the cockpit incident aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, on September 30, 2026.
According to a statement released by the UAE Attorney-General through the Emirates News Agency (WAM) on October 3, the co-pilot attacked the aircraft's captain using an emergency cockpit axe, commonly known as a crash axe, before attempting to seize control of the aircraft.
Official Investigation: What Has Changed?
The latest statement provides an important clarification regarding the weapon reportedly used during the incident.
While early reports described a stabbing or knife attack, UAE authorities have now identified the weapon as an emergency axe — a piece of safety equipment carried aboard aircraft.
The Attorney-General's statement also referred to the co-pilot beginning to execute a plan during the flight. However, authorities have not publicly established when the plan was developed or whether other individuals were involved.
- The UAE identified the weapon as an emergency cockpit axe.
- The captain was attacked during the flight.
- The co-pilot allegedly attempted to seize control of the aircraft.
- UAE authorities classified the incident as an attempted terrorist attack.
- The aircraft landed safely at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia.
Motive and Possible External Links
Although UAE authorities have described the incident as an attempted terrorist attack, the broader investigation remains ongoing.
The authorities have not released a final public finding establishing the full motive, possible accomplices or any external organization responsible for directing the incident.
In particular, allegations linking the incident to Iran should not be presented as established investigative findings without supporting official evidence.
Flight Diversion to Saudi Arabia
Flight FZ1073 was operating between Dubai and Tel Aviv when the emergency unfolded. The aircraft was subsequently diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.
The case has attracted international attention, with investigators examining the circumstances surrounding the cockpit attack and attempted takeover.
This report distinguishes official findings from preliminary media claims. Information may be updated as investigators release additional verified evidence.
Original Sources
1. Emirates News Agency (WAM)
UAE Attorney-General's statement, October 3, 2026.
Read the official statement
2. Reuters
Flydubai co-pilot attacked captain with axe, UAE says.
Read the Reuters report
Independent news coverage | Evidence before opinion