Investigation into flydubai cockpit attack and hijacker's background
Story essentials
Hammam al-Hammami, Smit Machchhar, UAE authorities
Saudi Arabia, New Zealand, Israel
September 30, 2026
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COMPAMIR Editorial Team
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Read our editorial policy- Earlier version 110/6/2026, 8:30:54 AM
The co-pilot, Hammam al-Hammami, attacked the captain with an emergency axe during a flight. The captain, Smit Machchhar, successfully fought back, allowing the crew to regain control. Investigations reveal the attacker had extremist ties and may have targeted Ben Gurion Airport in Israel. The attacker had previously spent time in New Zealand for flight training.
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