Flydubai flight FZ1073, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, triggered a major security alert on Wednesday after transmitting emergency transponder codes, including 7500, the international code associated with unlawful interference or a possible hijacking.
The Boeing 737 MAX 8 first transmitted 7700, indicating a general emergency, before briefly switching to 7500. The aircraft then altered course over Saudi Arabia and was diverted to Tabuk, where it landed safely. Israeli fighter jets were reportedly scrambled in response to the alert, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and senior officials held emergency consultations.
The crucial update: Israeli security officials have since said the incident was not a hijacking. Reports in Israeli media indicate that an altercation or dispute between the two pilots may have triggered the emergency signals. That account remains subject to investigation and has not yet been officially confirmed by flydubai or the relevant aviation authorities. All people aboard the aircraft were reported safe.
JANPATH NEWS NETWORK (JNN)
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