A preliminary investigation by Saudi authorities has found that the co-pilot of a Flydubai passenger aircraft assaulted the captain during a mid-air altercation, resulting in injuries to both pilots and forcing the aircraft to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.

The incident occurred aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30, 2026. The Boeing 737 was diverted to Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Tabuk after an emergency was declared during the flight. 

According to Saudi Arabia’s Interior Ministry, the preliminary investigation was conducted by Saudi authorities in coordination with a security team from the United Arab Emirates. Investigators concluded that an altercation took place in the cockpit in which the co-pilot assaulted the captain, leaving both injured. 

The aircraft landed safely in Tabuk at 9:45 a.m. local time, carrying 174 passengers and eight crew members. The passengers and crew were provided medical and logistical assistance after landing. The two pilots were taken to hospital for treatment. 

The passengers later continued their journey on a replacement Flydubai aircraft, while the captain and co-pilot were transferred to Abu Dhabi after receiving medical clearance. They were accompanied by a UAE security team. 

The captain, identified as Indian national Smit Machchhar, was seriously injured during the incident. Reports said that other crew members and passengers helped secure the aircraft and prevent the situation from becoming more dangerous. Indian officials have said Machchhar is recovering. 

However, several important questions remain unanswered. UAE authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances and motives behind the cockpit confrontation, including whether the incident involved prior planning or any possible terrorist intent. Authorities have not yet announced a final conclusion on the motive. 

The incident has prompted investigations involving Saudi and UAE authorities, while aviation officials continue to examine the flight data, cockpit events and other evidence to establish exactly what happened aboard FZ1073.