Australia probes flydubai co-pilot’s alleged extremist links

Australian counter-terrorism authorities have launched an investigation into a flydubai co-pilot’s alleged links to extremism after he reportedly attacked the captain and attempted to seize control of a passenger aircraft travelling from the United Arab Emirates to Israel.

The incident, which occurred aboard flight FZ1073 on September 30, prompted an emergency diversion to Saudi Arabia and raised questions about the suspect’s background, including his time studying in Australia.

According to Australian media reports, the Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team is examining the co-pilot’s connections to the country. The team comprises federal and state police and Australia’s domestic intelligence agency, the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO).

Suspect’s Time in Australia Under Scrutiny

The UAE’s investigation has drawn attention to the co-pilot’s activities while he was studying in Melbourne in 2017.

UAE Attorney-General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi said on October 3 that investigators believed the man had displayed signs of moving towards extremism during his time in Australia. He was also allegedly inspired by the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in the United States.

The co-pilot reportedly studied engineering at RMIT University in Melbourne but did not complete his degree. Australian authorities are now examining his time in the country and whether he had any links to extremist activity.

However, investigators have not publicly confirmed that another individual or organisation was involved in the alleged plot.

What Happened Aboard Flight FZ1073?

The flight was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30 when the co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain with an emergency axe kept in the cockpit and attempted to take control of the aircraft.

The situation triggered an emergency response, with other pilots and passengers reportedly intervening during the confrontation.

The aircraft diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. The incident was subsequently investigated by UAE authorities, who began examining the suspect’s alleged motives and background.

The Australian investigation adds an international dimension to the case, as authorities seek to establish whether the co-pilot’s time in Melbourne offers any clues about the alleged incident.

Investigation Continues

Authorities have not announced a final conclusion regarding the alleged motive or confirmed the full extent of any extremist connections.

Investigators are expected to examine the available evidence as they work to establish the circumstances surrounding the cockpit confrontation and determine whether the suspect acted alone.

The case remains under investigation, and the allegations against the co-pilot have not been established in court.