Flight Attack Investigation
Australian Police Investigate Australian Ties of Pilot Accused of Flight Attack
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Key Points
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The flight was carrying 182 people and reportedly plunged 5,067 metres in just over 30 seconds before passengers and crew intervened; the captain was stabbed and seriously injured.
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The suspect was arrested after the emergency landing and was being questioned by Saudi authorities, according to the Jerusalem Post report.
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A man named Hamam al-Hammami reportedly completed a distance-learning aviation management course at Buckinghamshire New University, graduating in 2023.
Australian police and security agencies are investigating an Omani airline co-pilot's ties to the country following a violent incident aboard a Flydubai flight on September 30. Hans India reported that Hamam al-Hammami allegedly attacked Captain Smit Machchhar with a crash axe and tried to seize control of the Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight carrying 182 passengers and crew. The aircraft plunged 5,067 meters in just over 30 seconds before passengers and crew restrained the suspect and stabilized the plane.
Al-Hammami, arrested after the emergency landing, studied in Australia from 2015 to 2017 on a student visa that was canceled in 2019. The Morning reported that the incident is being treated as a potential terrorist attack by authorities. Investigators are now examining his Australian movements and activities, including claims about his previous employment and alleged extremist views.
Co-Pilot's Time in Australia Under Scrutiny
Hamam al-Hammami obtained an Australian student visa in 2014 and remained in the country until 2017. Hans India reported that he completed a distance-learning aviation management course from Buckinghamshire New University, graduating in 2023. His visa was canceled in 2019 after he was no longer enrolled in studies, raising questions about his activities and whereabouts during that gap.
Attack Leaves Captain Seriously Injured
Captain Smit Machchhar suffered serious stab wounds during the assault on flight FZ1073, which departed Dubai bound for Tel Aviv. The Hans India reported that passengers and crew quickly intervened to restrain al-Hammami and prevent him from accessing the flight controls. The aircraft's emergency descent caused extreme pressure on occupants before the situation was brought under control.
Questions About Hiring and Aviation Background
Reports have raised concerns about how al-Hammami was hired by Flydubai and permitted to fly commercial routes. WTBX noted that authorities are examining claims he was previously removed from flying duties in Oman. The UAE prosecutor-general described the September 30 incident as a terrorist attack, prompting a broader investigation into his employment history and any warning signs that may have been overlooked.
Suspect Detained for Questioning in Saudi Arabia
Jerusalem Post reported that al-Hammami was arrested following the emergency landing and subsequently questioned by Saudi authorities. The investigation into his background, including his Australian student years and claimed extremist views, is ongoing. Australian authorities have not publicly confirmed key details about his activities or movements during his time in the country.
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