New Delhi : A 29-year-old Omani national, identified as Hamam al-Hammami, is reportedly facing a terrorism investigation following a serious mid-air incident involving Flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv.

According to investigators cited in reports, al-Hammami allegedly attempted to interfere with the flight after attacking the aircraft’s captain, Smit Machchhar, inside the cockpit. Authorities are examining claims that the incident was an intentional attempt to take control of the aircraft.

The aircraft reportedly experienced a rapid loss of altitude during the confrontation, creating panic among passengers and crew. Despite being injured, Captain Machchhar is said to have resisted the alleged attacker and helped create an opportunity for others to enter the cockpit.

Off-duty crew members and passengers reportedly intervened and restrained the suspect, while two reserve pilots took control of the aircraft. The flight was subsequently diverted and landed safely at Tabuk Airport in northwestern Saudi Arabia.

Following his arrest, al-Hammami was reportedly transferred to the United Arab Emirates. UAE authorities have described the incident as an attempted act of terrorism, while investigators from several countries are examining his background, digital activity and possible links to extremist networks.

Investigators are also looking into al-Hammami’s previous employment history. Reports indicate that he had worked for Oman Air before joining Flydubai in February 2026. Omani authorities had allegedly removed him from flying duties in the past following concerns over his online activities and had placed him in a ground-based role.

His subsequent employment with other international aviation companies and the circumstances surrounding his recruitment by Flydubai are now being examined as part of the wider investigation.

Authorities are also reviewing his deleted social media accounts and other digital records to determine whether they provide evidence of extremist beliefs, contacts or possible radicalisation.

The case has raised broader questions about aviation security, pilot background checks and the sharing of security-related information between national and international aviation authorities.

Investigations remain underway, and the allegations against al-Hammami will be subject to judicial proceedings and further official findings.