A Flydubai passenger flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv was diverted to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday after the co-pilot allegedly stabbed the captain during the flight, triggering a major security scare and a possible attempted hijacking. Israeli officials said they were investigating whether the incident could have been a terrorist attack.

The Boeing 737, operating as Flydubai Flight FZ1073, was carrying more than 160 passengers when the incident occurred. Flight-tracking data showed the aircraft rapidly lost altitude—around 16,000–17,000 feet within roughly two minutes—before recovering. The aircraft also transmitted emergency signals, including the international code associated with unlawful interference.

According to Israeli officials, passengers and crew members intervened and subdued the alleged attacker, allowing the aircraft to be brought under control. The plane subsequently made an emergency landing at Tabuk Airport in northwestern Saudi Arabia, where both pilots were taken to hospital with injuries. Passengers were reported safe.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the incident as a serious security event, while officials said the motive was still under investigation. Reuters reported that the suspected attacker was an Omani national. Authorities have not yet publicly established whether the incident was terrorism-related or what prompted the alleged attack.

The incident remains under investigation, with authorities examining the circumstances inside the cockpit and the suspected motive.