flydubai

Middle East Travel Alerts

Initial Saudi Probe Finds Co-Pilot Assaulted Captain on Diverted flydubai Flight FZ1073

A preliminary investigation conducted by Saudi authorities alongside UAE security personnel found that the co-pilot of flydubai Flight FZ1073 assaulted the captain, injuring both individuals. The aircraft diverted to Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, landing safely with 174 passengers and eight crew members. Following medical treatment in Tabuk, both pilots were cleared and transferred to Abu Dhabi.

Middle East Travel Alerts

EASA Advises Airlines to Avoid Parts of Saudi Airspace Through November 16

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior confirmed that Flydubai flight FZ1073 diverted to Tabuk on September 30 due to a cockpit altercation. All 174 passengers received care and departed for Tel Aviv on a replacement aircraft. The injured pilots were treated locally before transfer to Abu Dhabi on October 1.

Middle East Travel Alerts

Flydubai Dispatches Replacement Aircraft to Tabuk Following In-Flight Emergency Diversion

On September 30, 2026, Flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv made an emergency landing at Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Airport in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, following an in-flight cockpit struggle. Flydubai dispatched a replacement aircraft to evacuate the stranded passengers, though some travelers initially hesitated to reboard the carrier. Tabuk airport authorities later confirmed that all passengers departed Saudi Arabia for their final destination.

Middle East Travel Alerts

Flydubai Dubai-Tel Aviv Flight Diverts to Saudi Arabia Following Cockpit Attack

A Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv diverted safely to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, after a pilot stabbed the captain and attempted to sabotage the aircraft mid-air. Passengers and crew subdued the attacker before the plane landed, and Saudi authorities placed the suspect under arrest. Flydubai confirmed all passengers were safe, while the Israel Airports Authority set up an information center for families.