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FlyDubai Co-pilot Accused of Hate Posts Before Attack on Indian Pilot

Israeli authorities have revealed that the FlyDubai co-pilot who attacked Indian Captain Smit Machar with a knife and attempted to seize control of the aircraft had posted online content discussing violence against Jewish people, suggesting possible radicalization.

LSN India · 2 October 2026

FlyDubai Co-pilot Accused of Hate Posts Before Attack on Indian Pilot

Israeli officials investigating the incident involving the Omani airline FlyDubai have disclosed that the co-pilot accused of attacking Captain Smit Machar displayed extremist ideologies through online activity prior to the assault. The co-pilot, who attempted to take control of the flight, had engaged in communications expressing violent sentiments toward Jewish communities, according to the authorities' findings.

The attack on Captain Machar, an Indian national serving as the aircraft's pilot, marked a serious breach of aviation security. During the incident, the co-pilot allegedly wielded a knife in an effort to commandeer the flight, prompting immediate intervention by crew members and security personnel.

Investigators analyzing the suspect's digital footprint determined that the individual appeared to have been influenced by extremist ideologies. The discovery of these online posts has raised concerns about radicalization and the screening processes for airline personnel across the region.

The incident has prompted both Israeli and international aviation authorities to review security protocols and personnel vetting procedures. Officials are examining whether warning signs were missed in background checks or monitoring systems that might have flagged the individual's extremist activities before he was cleared to work as flight crew.