Flydubai Flight Allegedly Targeted Tel Aviv Airport in Terror Attack

A Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv was diverted to Saudi Arabia after an alleged hijacking attempt that authorities believe targeted Israel's Ben Gurion Airport. iHeart Radio reported the suspect, believed to be the co-pilot, attempted to crash the plane. All 172 passengers escaped unharmed, though both pilots suffered minor injuries.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the incident an attempted terror attack. Saudi authorities detained the suspect for interrogation. Investigators are working to determine the hijacker's full motive and how the cockpit security breach occurred.
The incident unfolded as Flight FZ981 traveled from Dubai toward Tel Aviv. The alleged hijacker, identified as the co-pilot, reportedly attempted to seize control and dive the aircraft. Crew members intervened before the plane could reach its target. The aircraft made a rapid, steep descent before being diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.
Authorities believe the hijacker aimed to crash the plane into Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport, the country's largest aviation hub. iHeart Radio reported investigators found evidence suggesting a deliberate plan to target the facility. The airport serves roughly 20 million passengers yearly and is critical to Israel's transportation infrastructure.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly characterized the hijacking attempt as terrorism. His statement linked the incident to broader security threats facing Israel. Netanyahu emphasized the nation's resilience and commitment to aviation safety. The framing placed the event within escalating regional tensions.
Saudi authorities took custody of the alleged hijacker upon landing in Tabuk. Interrogations began immediately to extract details about motive and planning. Security agencies aim to determine whether the suspect acted alone or received outside support. International cooperation on the investigation is underway between Israeli and Saudi officials.
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