DUBAI, September 30, 2026: A Flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv was diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, after an incident involving the pilots in the cockpit triggered emergency signals during the flight.
Flight FZ1073, operating from Dubai International Airport to Ben Gurion International Airport, landed safely in Tabuk. Flydubai confirmed that all passengers were safe and accounted for.
According to Israeli and regional officials, a physical altercation reportedly broke out between the pilots while the aircraft was in flight. Publicly available flight-tracking data showed the aircraft transmitting a general emergency signal followed by a signal associated with possible unlawful interference.
The aircraft also reportedly made a sharp descent before stabilizing and diverting toward Saudi Arabia. Both pilots were taken to hospital after sustaining injuries, according to authorities at Tabuk airport.
Initial reports raised concerns about a possible hijacking, prompting a security response in Israel. However, an Israeli Prime Minister’s Office spokesperson initially said the incident was not considered a hijacking, while officials said the circumstances remained under investigation.
Reports have cited approximately 180 people on board, although passenger figures have varied among initial reports. The airline said it was cooperating with the relevant authorities and that further confirmed details would be released as they became available.
