CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: New Delhi. The Omani co-pilot who allegedly attacked Indian Captain Smit Machar on a Flydubai flight has been identified as Hammam al-Hammami. After the incident inside the cockpit of flight number FZ1073, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30, the aircraft suddenly descended by thousands of feet. The aircraft was later landed safely at Tabuk airport in Saudi Arabia.
According to reports, Hammam al-Hammami was undergoing co-pilot training with Oman Air in 2024. During that period, security concerns had reportedly emerged after some extremist material was allegedly found in his possession and questions were raised about his views. He was then removed from flight training. However, he was allowed to work in an administrative role with the airline.
His career then saw several changes. According to an old professional profile linked to his name, he remained associated with Oman Air until February 2025. He later joined Royal Air Maroc and subsequently Flydubai. Reports said he had been working with Flydubai for about eight months. A key question in the investigation is how he was cleared to fly with another airline despite being flagged as a security risk in Oman.
After the incident, the Attorney General of the United Arab Emirates ordered an investigation. Investigators are examining whether any terrorist activity, prior planning or the role of any other party was behind the incident. No final conclusion has yet been reached on the motive for the alleged attack.
Indian Captain Smit Machar has been praised for controlling the aircraft and helping ensure a safe landing. The incident has also raised questions over pilot security checks and aviation safety procedures.
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