Flydubai Flight Scare: Co-Pilot Was Barred From Flying in Oman Over Extremism Concerns

A Flydubai co-pilot accused of trying to crash a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight had reportedly been barred from flying in Oman over extremism concerns, raising questions over airline security checks.

Post Published By: Sreeja Chowdhury

Updated : 3 October 2026, 7:52 AM IST

Flydubai Flight (Img: Pinterest)

Dubai: New details have emerged in the Flydubai flight incident that has raised serious questions over aviation security. The co-pilot accused of attacking the captain and attempting to bring down a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight had reportedly been barred from flying in Oman over concerns about extremist views.

According to people familiar with the matter, the co-pilot was later employed by UAE-based Flydubai. It remains unclear how the earlier concerns were assessed during the airline's recruitment and security-vetting process. Oman's decision to prevent him from flying was first reported by The Wall Street Journal.

Also Read: FlyDubai Attack: Who Is Smit Machchhar, The Pilot Who Faced The Cockpit Horror?

Co-pilot allegedly attacked captain mid-flight

The incident occurred on September 30 aboard Flydubai Flight 1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. During the flight, the co-pilot allegedly attacked and injured Indian captain Smit Machchhar.

The aircraft subsequently went into a steep descent, losing thousands of feet in a short period. The captain managed to regain access to the cockpit, while passengers and other crew members intervened. Two off-duty pilots who were also travelling on the aircraft helped regain control before the plane made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

Investigation focuses on security checks

The co-pilot was later transferred to the UAE, where authorities are investigating the incident and examining whether it involved terrorist activity, prior planning or outside direction.

Separate reports said the co-pilot had previously been identified as a security concern while training with Oman Air. Sources told ABC News that extremist material was allegedly found in his possession in 2024, after which he was removed from flying duties for a period.

Also Read: ‘Bajrang Bali Gave Me Courage’: Smit Machchhar Tells PM Modi After FlyDubai Attack

Authorities are now examining how he subsequently obtained permission to fly for Flydubai. Officials have also urged the public to avoid speculation while the investigation continues.