Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 10:10am on 02 Oct 2026,Friday International
The UAE has not disclosed the identity of the Omani co-pilot accused of attacking Indian Captain Smit Machchhar during flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The aircraft reportedly plunged nearly 14,000 feet in under 30 seconds before passengers helped overpower the co-pilot and the plane diverted safely to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Saudi authorities later handed the co-pilot to the UAE. Investigators are examining his motive, the weapon used, possible prior planning, assistance from others and potential links to terrorist activity. Machchhar, who was airlifted to Abu Dhabi, is reportedly recovering well. (PC: HT)
