Flydubai co-pilot intended to crash plane into Ben Gurion airport, Israeli media report

AFP investigates Australian links

Australia's counter-terrorism authorities are investigating the co-pilot's links to Australia. The Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team, comprising the Australian Federal Police, Victoria Police, and ASIO, is investigating, an AFP spokesperson said. Sources close to the incident have confirmed al-Hammami was issued a student visa in 2014 and studied in Australia between 2015 and 2017 before leaving the country.

Analysis

Why This Matters

The incident highlights a potential new aviation security threat: an insider with extremist intent using a commercial aircraft as a weapon.
The plot targeted a major international airport and a US military base, carrying implications for global aviation and counter-terrorism cooperation.
The involvement of an individual previously flagged as a security risk raises questions about how such threats are shared across airlines and countries.

Background

Flydubai is a Dubai-based low-cost carrier that operates flights across the Middle East, including to Tel Aviv. The airline's flights between Dubai and Israel have operated since 2020 following the Abraham Accords. The alleged attacker, an Omani national, had reportedly been suspended by Oman Air after being identified as a security risk, yet later gained employment with Flydubai. The incident occurred on a scheduled passenger flight with largely Israeli passengers, which Israeli media have described as a foiled terrorist attack.

Key Perspectives

UAE authorities: The UAE prosecutor general has labelled the incident a terrorist attack, signalling a strong stance against the alleged plot. Israeli security establishment: Israeli media, citing official sources, have detailed the co-pilot's alleged intentions and the thwarting of a major attack, likely to underscore the effectiveness of in-flight passenger responses. Australian counter-terrorism agencies: The AFP and its partners are investigating the co-pilot's past residence in Australia, focusing on any radicalisation or connections formed during his time as a student. Aviation security experts: The case may prompt reviews of vetting procedures for flight crew, particularly those from foreign carriers operating in sensitive regions.

What to Watch

Outcome of the UAE interrogation of al-Hammami and any additional details about the alleged plot.
The AFP investigation into Australian links, including whether any networks or individuals in Australia were involved.
Potential changes to airline security protocols for flight crew and co-pilot recruitment screening.
Diplomatic reactions from Israel, the US, Jordan, and Oman regarding the incident.