Flydubai Co-Pilot Identified as Security Risk Before Mid-Air Attack

The co-pilot involved in the mid-air assault on a Flydubai pilot en route to Tel Aviv had previously been flagged as a security risk. Officials revealed that the Omani national was suspended from flying by Oman Air in 2024 after extremist materials were found in his possession during his time as a co-pilot trainee.

Despite this previous suspension, the suspect was reportedly allowed to continue with the airline in an administrative capacity. Investigators are now working to understand how he was subsequently cleared to fly for Flydubai and ultimately ended up in the cockpit of the flight that was diverted due to the attack. The incident has raised serious questions about vetting processes within the airline industry.