Leaked Interrogation Details How flydubai Co-Pilot Cancelled Planned July Strike For Coworkers

The co-pilot accused of attacking the captain of flydubai Flight FZ1073 had reportedly planned to carry out an attack as early as July but abandoned that attempt after developing a friendly relationship with a crew member, according to Israeli media reports citing details from the investigation. The Omani national, Hamam al-Hammami, is accused of attacking Captain Smit Machchhar during the Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight last week and attempting to take control of the aircraft. Investigators are now examining whether the incident was part of a plan that had been developed before al-Hammami joined flydubai.

According to reports cited by Israeli outlets, al-Hammami allegedly told investigators that he had selected flydubai because the airline operated flights to Tel Aviv. He reportedly said he had researched airlines serving the route and planned the operation even before being hired. Investigators are also examining reports that he had previously travelled to Israel and may have used those trips to gather information relevant to the alleged plan. The claims have not been independently established in court, and the investigation into his motives, preparation and possible contacts remains ongoing.

The reported July plan was allegedly abandoned after al-Hammami became friendly with a member of the crew, according to the accounts. He is then alleged to have waited for another opportunity before carrying out the attack on FZ1073. Israeli media reports say he intended to incapacitate Machchhar while the aircraft was approaching Israel, take control of the plane and continue flying normally long enough to avoid raising suspicion. He allegedly planned to obtain the necessary landing clearances before attempting to crash the aircraft at Ben Gurion Airport.

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The alleged plan was disrupted after Machchhar fought back despite suffering serious injuries during the attack. According to UAE authorities, al-Hammami attacked the captain with a crash axe while the aircraft was in flight. Machchhar was able to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to intervene and restrain the co-pilot. Two off-duty pilots travelling on the aircraft subsequently helped regain control of the flight, which was diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia and landed safely. The aircraft had been carrying more than 170 people.

Reports have also provided further details about what al-Hammami allegedly intended to do if the primary target could not be reached. Israeli media reports said he considered crashing the aircraft into a building or aircraft at Ben Gurion Airport and had also discussed alternative targets, including a skyscraper in Tel Aviv or a US military facility in Jordan. These details are based on reported statements attributed to the suspect during questioning and have not been established through a completed judicial process. Investigators are continuing to determine whether he acted alone or had assistance from others.

The incident has triggered wider scrutiny of aviation security and the vetting of flight crew members. UAE authorities have described the attack as a terrorist attempt, while investigations are being conducted across several countries. Reports have also raised questions about al-Hammami's previous aviation history, including claims that he had earlier been prevented from flying in Oman because of concerns about extremist views. Australian authorities are separately examining his links to the country, where he reportedly studied several years ago.

The case has also prompted Israel to review security procedures for foreign commercial flights entering the country. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a comprehensive review following the incident, amid questions about how al-Hammami was cleared to operate a flight to Tel Aviv. Meanwhile, Machchhar, who was seriously injured in the cockpit attack, has been receiving treatment in Abu Dhabi. The investigation remains active, with authorities seeking to establish the full sequence of events, the suspect's preparation and whether any other individuals were connected to the alleged plot.

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