The Israeli government has declined flydubai’s request to resume flight operations to Israel, following an incident last week in which an Omani co-pilot allegedly attacked the Indian captain of a Tel Aviv-bound flight.
The incident occurred in the aircraft’s cockpit while the flight was carrying more than 170 passengers, most of whom were reportedly Israeli citizens. The captain, Smit Machchar, was injured during the confrontation but remained in control of the aircraft.
According to reports from Israel, flydubai had asked for permission to restart its services after informing authorities that its internal investigation into the incident was nearing completion. The airline has also reportedly taken disciplinary action against several employees in connection with the episode.
Israeli Transportation Minister Miri Regev has declined the request for the time being, while officials from Israel’s Transportation Ministry are expected to visit Dubai next week for further discussions, according to Israeli media reports.
The incident involved Machchhar and Omani co-pilot Hammam al-Hammami. Reports say the co-pilot attacked the captain with an axe that was kept in the cockpit, leaving Machchhar with a serious head injury.
Despite being injured, the captain continued operating the aircraft and the flight was brought under control.
Authorities are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident. The decision on flydubai’s return to Israel could be revisited following further discussions and the completion of the relevant investigations.
