Saudi Arabia has handed over to UAE, the Omani co-pilot who made an abortive attempt to crash Flydubai’s Tel Aviv bound plane. Investigators are probing the attack on Indian pilot Smit Machchhar by the Omani co-pilot in the cockpit.
The development came after Saudi authorities conducted a preliminary investigation into the incident, that forced the flight to make an emergency landing in the Saudi city of Tabuk on Wednesday.
Saudi Arabia’s Interior Ministry said its initial investigation indicated that the co-pilot has assaulted the captain during the flight. The preliminary investigation was conducted in coordination with security teams from the UAE.
Investigations into the incident, which occurred while the plane was flying over Saudi Arabia, are still in their early stages. However, the possibility of a terror motive has heightened concerns in a region already on edge amid the ongoing war with Iran.
Brave Indian pilot Smit Machchhar airlifted to Abu Dhabi for treatment; India closely following his health condition
External Affairs Ministry has said it continues to closely follow the health condition of Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian national and the brave pilot of FlyDubai flight FZ 1073.
It said in a statement that after receiving initial medical treatment in a hospital in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, he has now been shifted to Abu Dhabi for continued medical attention and recovery.
Indian Ambassador in UAE met Captain Machchhar in the hospital and enquired about his well-being. Earlier, the Ambassador also met his family and assured all possible support for the Captain’s health and well-being.
The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate in Dubai are in close touch with the local authorities in the matter.
External Affairs Ministry once again saluted Captain Smit Machchhar’s valour and courage. It also conveyed deep appreciation for the admiration and support he has received from across the world for his act of gallantry.