Updated on October 4, 2026, CBS News reports a harrowing event aboard FlyDubai Flight 1073. On Wednesday, they boarded as strangers. By Friday, they were united as family.
The Terrifying Descent
Daniel Schlichter recounted the distress during the aircraft’s uncontrolled plunge. “That minute is probably the longest minute of my life,” he stated, reflecting on mortality as the plane nosedived towards the Arabian Desert nearly at the speed of sound.
The incident began when the co-pilot attacked the captain and tried to crash the plane carrying Israeli passengers. The aircraft, a Boeing 737 Max, fell 14,000 feet within moments. Zvika Manes described the intense G-forces as akin to a roller coaster.
Inside the Cockpit
Captain Smit Machchhar bravely fought for his life in the cockpit, as recounted to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “The co-pilot wanted to pray, and suddenly there was a big blow to the back of my head,” Machchhar explained. Despite his injuries, he managed to open the cockpit door where heroic passengers were waiting.
Heroic Intervention
Manes’ family, seated in the front row, witnessed the attack firsthand. His daughter screamed about the attack, prompting Manes to act decisively to save his family. Schlichter was driven by the instinct to protect his wife.
Tal Samuel noted the sudden transformation of everyday individuals into fierce protectors. “It was like lions that are in a killing mode,” he said.
Overpowering the Attacker
With the help of Israeli plumber Yaniv Hayoun, they subdued the co-pilot, Hamam al Hamami, who was later identified as having extremist views. Israeli investigators found incriminating social media posts where Hamami expressed violent intentions. UAE officials labeled the incident a “terrorist act.”
Securing the Aircraft
Amid the chaos, Samuel noticed two off-duty pilots nearby. One pilot managed to reach the controls and stabilize the aircraft’s descent, but Captain Machchhar was severely injured.
In urgent need of medical help, they called for a doctor. Shota Musaev, a dentist onboard, responded to the call. He told his wife, “I need to go. I love you,” before treating the captain’s wounds.
Safe Landing and Aftermath
With Machchhar’s life hanging in the balance, Musaev took decisive action to tend to his injuries. The plane, critically running out of time, headed to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, despite concerns of geopolitical tensions.
Thankfully, the passengers were welcomed upon landing. Captain Machchhar received medical attention at a hospital where Dr. Musaev continued to care for him through the night.
Dr. Musaev expressed deep gratitude and connection with the captain. “From this time, we are a very big family,” he noted.