A Flydubai aircraft operating from Dubai to Tel Aviv was forced to divert to Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia on 30 September after a pilot stabbed his co‑pilot during the flight.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the incident in a statement posted to X, noting he had spoken directly with an Israeli passenger on board.

According to the prime minister, the aircraft entered a spin and began to dive as it approached Israeli airspace before passengers and a crew member forced their way into the cockpit and overpowered the attacker.

A second crew member subsequently took control of the plane, stabilising it and allowing the flight to continue to Saudi territory.

The distress alert prompted Israel to scramble fighter jets while the aircraft was diverted, and the plane touched down safely at Tabuk Airport, where passengers celebrated with a Jewish song and applause.

The attacking pilot was arrested on arrival and handed over to Saudi authorities for interrogation.

Netanyahu praised the passengers and crew for averting a potential catastrophe and said Israeli security services were directed to prepare for further threats while assessments continued.

Israeli officials said they remain in constant contact with relevant parties to ensure the safe return of all passengers.