Flydubai co-pilot's radical views missed by Oman, UAE, Israel security
· World · Indian Express, NDTV
Hamam al-Hammami, a 29-year-old flydubai co-pilot with Omani and Syrian heritage, was flagged by Oman Air in 2024 for browsing extremist websites and barred from flying after suspected radicalisation during time in Syria. Despite this, he joined flydubai in February 2026 and was on Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv when he attacked the Indian captain with an emergency axe, nearly causing a crash. The incident on October 1, 2026, revealed security lapses across Oman, the UAE, and Israel, as authorities in all three countries had opportunities to intervene before he reached the cockpit. Investigators are examining whether his radicalisation during Syria’s civil war contributed to the attack, though no group has claimed responsibility. The flight carried Israeli passengers and landed safely at Ben Gurion Airport after the crew subdued him.
Why it matters
The incident raises concerns about pilot vetting procedures in Gulf airlines and the effectiveness of international security sharing, particularly for personnel with conflict-zone travel history. Indian nationals working abroad, especially in aviation, may face heightened scrutiny following this attack on an Indian pilot.
Read the original report — Indian Express
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