Dubai: New videos from FlyDubai flight FZ1073 have revealed the chaos that unfolded after the Omani co-pilot allegedly attacked Indian captain Smit Machchhar during the Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight.
The footage, aired on Israeli television and reported by multiple outlets, shows passengers and crew members rushing towards the cockpit, calling for a doctor and another pilot. Voices can be heard urging people to remain calm and sit down as the situation develops.
Injured Pilot Seen Asking for Help
One of the most striking moments in the footage shows Captain Machchhar injured and lying near the cockpit. He can be heard telling those around him that the co-pilot had hit him repeatedly. He also says he could move his injured hand but was unable to close it into a fist.
Also Read: FlyDubai Attack Video: 'He Hit Me', New Footage Shows Smit Machhar's Ordeal
Despite being seriously injured, Machchhar had managed to activate the cockpit door release. This allowed passengers and crew members to enter and help restrain the attacker.
Extra Pilots Help Bring Plane Under Control
The videos also capture passengers asking whether another pilot was available onboard. Two additional FlyDubai pilots were traveling as passengers and later helped take control of the aircraft.
The plane had suffered a rapid descent after the cockpit attack before the reserve pilots and others onboard helped stabilize it. The flight was eventually diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.
Co-Pilot Restrained After Emergency Landing
Further footage recorded after landing shows the alleged attacker with his hands restrained behind his back while passengers and crew waited for police. Medics are also seen treating Machchhar outside the aircraft.
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The Omani co-pilot has since been transferred from Saudi custody to the UAE. Authorities are investigating the motive behind the incident and whether it involved terrorism, prior planning or outside direction.