Flydubai Co-Pilot Allegedly Planned Earlier Attack in July. A Crew Connection Stopped It

New details emerging from the investigation into the Flydubai cockpit incident suggest that Omani co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami had considered carrying out an attack months earlier but reportedly abandoned the plan at the last moment.

According to reports citing information from the ongoing UAE investigation, al-Hammami had previously operated flights to Tel Aviv and allegedly used one of his visits to gather information at Ben Gurion Airport.

Investigators reportedly believe he had considered carrying out an attack in July, but ultimately decided not to proceed because he knew and was friendly with a member of the flight crew.

The July Plan Was Reportedly Called Off

Israeli media reports, citing details attributed to the investigation, say al-Hammami had already been considering an attack before the incident reported on September 30.

During an earlier visit to Ben Gurion Airport, he allegedly spent time observing the airport and gathering information relevant to his plans.

The reports say the intended operation was later postponed until July. However, his relationship with a crew member reportedly led him to abandon the plan shortly before it could be carried out.

The September 30 Incident

On September 30, al-Hammami was serving as co-pilot aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073, traveling from the United Arab Emirates to Tel Aviv.

UAE authorities have described the incident as an attempted terrorist attack. According to investigators, al-Hammami attacked the captain inside the cockpit and attempted to take control of the aircraft.

The captain was able to open the cockpit door despite being injured. Passengers and crew then intervened and restrained the co-pilot, while other pilots aboard the aircraft helped regain control of the plane.

The aircraft subsequently diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.

Investigators Are Examining His Background

Investigators are also looking into al-Hammami's professional and personal background.

Officials cited in media reports have said that he had previously been barred from flying in Oman amid concerns over extremist material or views. Investigators are now examining how he subsequently obtained employment with Flydubai and was able to operate international routes.

Authorities are also investigating whether al-Hammami acted alone or whether anyone else may have been involved.

If the reports concerning the earlier plan are confirmed, they could significantly broaden the investigation. They would suggest that the September incident may not have been an isolated or spontaneous act, but potentially followed months of preparation.

However, the July account remains part of an ongoing investigation, and some details have been attributed to unnamed sources rather than publicly released investigative findings.

Authorities continue to examine al-Hammami's motives, background, previous flights and possible contacts as they work to establish the complete sequence of events.