Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv diverted to Saudi Arabia after pilots’ altercation

A flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv was diverted to Saudi Arabia and landed at Tabuk Airport after an altercation between the pilots triggered emergency signals during the flight, according to Israeli security sources.

The aircraft, operating flight FZ1073, initially transmitted a general emergency signal and later sent a signal indicating possible unlawful interference, which is also associated with a suspected hijacking. The incident prompted an Israeli military response, including the scrambling of fighter jets.

Israeli officials subsequently said the incident was not believed to have been a hijacking and was instead apparently caused by a physical altercation between the two pilots.

The aircraft landed safely in Tabuk, and flydubai said all passengers were safe and accounted for. The airline said it was working with the relevant authorities and would provide further information once confirmed details became available.

Following the incident, Israel Defence Forces Chief of Staff Lt Gen Eyal Zamir held a situation assessment with senior commanders, including Air Force Commander Maj Gen Omer Tischler, Operations Directorate chief Maj Gen Itzik Cohen and Intelligence Directorate chief Maj Gen Shlomi Binder. Further details have not yet been released.