New Delhi

Ina dramatic mid-air incident, an Indian Captain of flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv carrying 180 passengers thwarted a hijack attempt by his co-pilot, averting what Israeli media described as a potential “second 9/11.”

The flight made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after an alleged violent altercation between the two pilots inside the cockpit triggering a mid-air emergency, with videos purportedly capturing passengers screaming as the aircraft rapidly descended.

The flight was diverted to Tabuk airport after transmitting emergency signals that briefly raised fears of a hijacking. Israeli authorities scrambled fighter jets as they struggled to establish contact with the aircraft.

According to reports, the Omani co-pilot allegedly tried to seize control of the aircraft and stab Captain Smit Machchhar during the flight. Despite sustaining injuries, the Captain fought back and prevented the plane from crashing. His quick thinking and courage ensured the safety of more than 180 passengers, most of them Israeli nationals.

The situation escalated when the Captain, injured but determined, managed to restrain the attacker long enough for two off-duty pilots traveling as passengers to intervene. Continued on Page 7