Passengers Say Flydubai Crew Asked Them to Free Subdued Copilot
Published
Israeli passengers Tzvika Manes and Daniel Schlichter said some Flydubai cabin crew demanded that they release the copilot after passengers subdued and restrained him during the September 30 attack aboard flight FZ1073. They said passengers refused, and reserve pilots controlled the Dubai–Tel Aviv aircraft, which landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Schlichter said passengers gave the restrained attacker oxygen so he could survive for investigation. The crew have not been accused of conspiring with the copilot. Flydubai declined specific comment while the investigation continues and said it is supporting investigators and coordinating with authorities.