FlyDubai flight diverts to Saudi Arabia after cockpit stabbing, alleged crash attempt

A FlyDubai co-pilot allegedly stabbed the captain aboard a flight bound for Israel, and then appeared to attempt to crash the aircraft, according to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The plane made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia at Tabuk Airport after sending a distress call about two and a half hours into the journey. Israeli officials are assessing whether the incident could be an attempted terrorist attack, while FlyDubai says the motive is not established and remains under formal investigation. Tracking data showed a rapid drop of about 17,400 feet in under two minutes before the aircraft changed course near the Jordanian border. Saudi state television reported both the captain and first officer were injured and taken to hospital. FlyDubai dispatched two replacement aircraft, and Israeli officials consulted on options to bring passengers home.