Omani national identified as co-pilot in FlyDubai cockpit attack

UPDATE - follow-up to FlyDubai co-pilot who nearly crashed plane was barred from flying by Oman over extremism concerns: The co-pilot accused of attacking his captain with an axe on an Israel-bound FlyDubai flight has been identified as Hamam al-Hammami, an Omani national previously barred from flying for his home airline over extremism concerns.

Investigation and Background

Three sources with knowledge of the situation confirmed the identification. Regional officials state that al-Hammami was moved to an administrative job at Oman Air before later being hired by FlyDubai. Born in the UAE with a Syrian mother, questions remain regarding how he obtained Omani nationality and how he was vetted by the UAE-based airline. Security agencies from four regional countries, alongside the United States and other Western governments, are currently investigating his motives and potential links to extremist groups.

Flight Details and Reactions

The incident took place on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, on a flight carrying 182 passengers. The UAE government labeled the cockpit incident a terrorist attack, stating the co-pilot used a crash axe and tried to take control of a sharply plummeting plane. Badly wounded Indian captain Smit Machchhar used his remaining energy to unlock the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to enter, subdue the attacker, and stabilize the aircraft before landing safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Friday that the co-pilot underwent Islamist radicalization, though without providing immediate evidence. A FlyDubai spokesperson stated the airline could not comment beyond official statements, while Oman Air and the Omani government have not issued public comments.

Context

Airlines maintain strict security and vetting protocols for flight crew, while cockpit crash axes are standard safety equipment kept secure from passengers but accessible to flight crews in emergencies. The case highlights aviation security challenges, particularly regarding international flights between countries without formal diplomatic ties.