Investigation Expands in Flydubai Stabbing Incident Involving Maldivian Pilots
The investigation into the flydubai stabbing incident has expanded with the detention of two Maldivian pilots on October 3. They were reportedly linked to Omani co-pilot Hammam al-Hammami, who attacked Indian pilot Smit Machchhar on September 30. Al-Hammami allegedly attempted to seize control of flight FZ1073, carrying 174 passengers and crew, using an axe. Machchhar sustained serious injuries but managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing crew and passengers to subdue al-Hammami. The UAE Attorney General confirmed a comprehensive investigation is ongoing, while India's National Investigation Agency has registered a case under the Anti-Hijacking Act and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Machchhar is recovering after surgery in Abu Dhabi, with the Indian Embassy monitoring his condition.
Published 13 hours ago • 13 Oct 2026, 04:59 PM IST