Investigators question flydubai co-pilot after alleged cockpit attack

The flydubai co-pilot accused of attacking the captain during a flight reportedly told investigators in Saudi Arabia that he wanted to crash the aircraft and was not afraid of death, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing a Saudi official briefed on his interrogation. The co-pilot, identified as Hamam al-Hammami, a 29-year-old Omani national, was later returned to the United Arab Emirates, where authorities are questioning him. The UAE attorney general said on Saturday that he had attempted to carry out a terrorist act.

Hammami is accused of repeatedly attacking Captain Smit Machchhar with an onboard crash axe before trying to take control of the aircraft. The captain reportedly opened the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to intervene. The flight was carrying more than 170 people.

Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Israel are investigating the incident, including whether Hammami had links to outside powers, according to the report. Investigators are also examining whether he became radicalised while living in Syria and are reviewing his online activity. The report said Hammami had previously worked for Oman Air but was later barred from flying after authorities became aware of his interest in extremist websites.

People familiar with his background said he underwent a deradicalisation programme and was assigned desk duties. Hammami later obtained employment in the UAE, where flydubai hired him in February. The report said it could not establish what vetting the airline conducted.

The UAE and flydubai declined to comment while the investigation continues.