Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shared insights on a harrowing attack during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. In a Fox News interview, Netanyahu described the actions of passengers, notably Yaniv Chayon, who prevented a disaster by subduing an alleged attacker.
On this flight, a pilot attempted to stab a fellow pilot and crash the plane carrying over 100 passengers, including 30 children. Netanyahu lauded Chayon’s heroism, saying, “He acted with coolness of judgment and heroism… just tremendous courage that prevented another 9/11.” This reference highlighted the scale of the disaster avoided, drawing parallels to the 9/11 attacks, which claimed nearly 3,000 lives.
The incident arose when the FlyDubai flight’s captain, previously incapacitated, unlocked the cockpit door during a suspected hijacking attempt. Passengers, including Chayon, swiftly intervened to stabilize the aircraft.
Netanyahu, recounting a meeting with Chayon, expressed admiration for his bravery. “I met with this Israeli, Yaniv, who did this thing,” the prime minister explained. “I asked him how he did it, and he said he simply had to do it.” Chayon’s decisive actions saved 174 passengers, mainly Israelis.
Netanyahu attributed the assault to antisemitism and propaganda against Israel. “I don’t know the attacker’s exact background, but he obviously hated Israelis,” said Netanyahu.
During the ordeal, the aircraft plunged from 30,000 feet to 17,000 before managing an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. The pilot, Capt. Smit Machchhar, is reportedly battling severe injuries. Despite his condition, he managed to unlock the cockpit door, facilitating the passengers’ intervention.
After the emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, the alleged attacker was detained. Authorities continue to probe the co-pilot’s actions and potential motives.
FlyDubai announced all flights to and from Israel are suspended pending investigation.