UAE Labels flydubai Cockpit Assault a Terrorist Act
The United Arab Emirates Attorney General, Counselor Dr. Hamad Saif al-Shamsi, has officially classified the attempted hijacking of a flydubai flight as a terrorist act. The classification, announced on Saturday, October 3, 2026, follows a violent struggle in the cockpit that forced an emergency diversion to Saudi Arabia.
The Cockpit Assault and Hijacking Attempt
The incident took place aboard flight FZ1073, a Boeing 737 MAX 8, which departed Dubai International Airport for Tel Aviv at 7:05 a.m. on September 30. According to reports, the co-pilot allegedly used an emergency crash axe to assault the captain in an attempt to seize control of the aircraft.
The flight was carrying approximately 174 passengers and a total of 182 people on board. The captain, identified as Indian national Smit Matchar, was wounded on the cockpit floor while attempting to unlock the door. His actions allowed passengers and two reserve pilots to enter the cockpit and successfully secure the flight.
Erratic Flight Patterns and Emergency Codes
Data from Flightradar24 revealed the extreme danger the aircraft faced during the struggle. The plane experienced rapid altitude fluctuations, dropping more than 17,000 feet in just two minutes from its cruising altitude of 34,000 feet.
The aircraft's transponder also signaled the escalating crisis:
- 9:28 a.m.: The transponder broadcast a 7700 emergency code.
- 9:35 a.m.: The code changed to 7500, which specifically signals unlawful interference or a hijacking.
Following a distress call, the aircraft diverted to Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, landing at 9:45 a.m. local time.
Investigation into Extremism and Identity
While UAE authorities have not officially named the co-pilot, international news agencies Reuters and AP have identified him as an Omani national, Hammam al-Hammami. Reports from the Wall Street Journal suggest that Oman had previously flagged the individual due to concerns regarding extremism. His professional history reportedly includes roles at Oman Air and Royal Air Maroc.
The UAE is currently conducting an intensive investigation to determine if there are direct links between the co-pilot and extremist organizations. The incident has drawn international commentary, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu alleging the co-pilot had been radicalized, and U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting intelligence may point toward links to Tehran, though UAE officials have not confirmed these specific affiliations.
Impact on Regional Aviation and Pilot Recovery
In the wake of the attempted hijacking, both flydubai and Emirates have suspended all flights to Israel until further notice. UAE diplomatic advisor Anwar Gargash noted that the attack serves as a stark warning regarding the ongoing threat of extremism.
Regarding the crew, the Saudi Interior Ministry confirmed that both the captain and the first officer sustained injuries. Following initial medical treatment in Tabuk, they were transferred to Abu Dhabi on October 1. The Indian Embassy in the UAE has confirmed that Captain Matchar is currently recovering, and Ambassador Dr. Deepak Mittal has met with the pilot's family to provide support.