The UAE has launched an investigation into a security incident involving a FlyDubai flight that diverted to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday. UAE Attorney General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi ordered a specialised investigation team to examine the incident on Thursday. The team includes specialised public prosecutors who will investigate what happened during the flight.
The UAE FlyDubai investigation concerns flight FZ1073, which travelled from Dubai International Airport to Tel Aviv. The aircraft diverted to Saudi Arabia and landed safely at Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Tabuk.
The investigation team will collect information and evidence and establish the facts surrounding the incident. Prosecutors will also examine the circumstances and possible motives behind what happened.
Authorities will determine whether the incident had any connection to terrorist activity or involved prior planning or direction. Investigators have not reached any conclusions at this stage.
The UAE has jurisdiction over the case because the country registered the aircraft and operates it under its flag. UAE authorities said the country’s laws allow them to investigate crimes committed aboard the aircraft outside UAE territory.
The flight carried 174 passengers when the incident occurred. FlyDubai said an altercation took place in the flight deck and that crew members secured the aircraft before diverting it safely to Saudi Arabia.
Airport officials said the incident injured both the captain and first officer. Medical teams took both crew members to a hospital for treatment. Officials confirmed that all passengers and crew members remained safe and accounted for.
Saudi Arabia has also started a safety investigation into the incident. The National Transport Safety Center is working with relevant authorities to examine the circumstances, aviation safety issues and available evidence.
The incident has attracted international attention following reports of an altercation in the cockpit. Earlier reports said passengers and crew members helped secure the aircraft before it made the emergency landing.
UAE aviation authorities have urged the public not to circulate unverified information or reach conclusions before investigators complete their work. Authorities continue to assess the available evidence.
Passengers later continued their journey from Tabuk on an alternative aircraft provided by FlyDubai. The airline has also confirmed its cooperation with the relevant authorities during the investigations.
The UAE FlyDubai investigation will establish what happened during the flight and identify the circumstances surrounding the security incident. Authorities will also assess any potential security or criminal implications.
Further information will emerge as investigators collect evidence and complete their assessment. Authorities have not yet announced a conclusion about the incident or its possible motive.
