A Flydubai flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv was diverted to Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Tabuk on 30 September 2026 following an altercation in the cockpit. The aircraft landed safely at approximately 9:45 a.m. Saudi local time.
All passengers and crew on board flight FZ1073 were reported safe and accounted for. The two pilots sustained injuries and were taken for medical treatment after the aircraft came to a stop.
Flydubai dispatched two replacement aircraft to Tabuk to continue the journey. All passengers departed for their final destination on a replacement aircraft at 5:40 p.m. Saudi local time, the same day.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the readiness of Saudi airports to handle unplanned diversions and provide swift support for travelers. Tabuk's Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Airport served as a safe landing point, and the affected passengers were able to resume their trip within the same day.
For residents and travelers across the Kingdom, the smooth handling of the situation underscores the role of regional airports in supporting international air traffic passing through Saudi airspace, ensuring passenger safety remains the top priority during unexpected events.
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