LSN News › World News

Politics · World News Bureau

Pilot stabbed by colleague on Israel-bound flight, safely lands in Saudi Arabia

A commercial pilot was attacked and wounded by another pilot aboard an aircraft headed to Israel, prompting crew and passengers to restrain the assailant. The plane made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia without further incident.

LSN World News · 1 October 2026

Pilot stabbed by colleague on Israel-bound flight, safely lands in Saudi Arabia

An Israeli pilot sustained stab wounds during an altercation with a colleague aboard a flight bound for Israel, according to statements from the Israeli Prime Minister's office. The incident occurred mid-flight as the aircraft carried passengers and crew across regional airspace.

Passengers and flight crew members acted swiftly to subdue the attacker after the stabbing occurred. Their intervention prevented further escalation and ensured the safety of those aboard the aircraft. The pilot who was wounded was tended to by onboard medical personnel during the emergency response.

The aircraft diverted to an airport in Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. Emergency services were standing by to receive the plane upon arrival. Israeli authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the assault and the relationship between the two pilots.

The incident marks a serious breach of aviation security aboard a commercial flight. Israeli officials did not provide additional details regarding the motive for the attack or the extent of the pilot's injuries at the time of their initial statement.