UAE Public Prosecutor Hamad Saif Al Shamsi has ordered the formation of an investigation team comprising specialized members of the Public Prosecution to investigate an incident involving Flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was traveling from Dubai International Airport to Tel Aviv yesterday and was diverted before landing safely at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia, the Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported Thursday.
According to WAM, the investigation follows Flydubai's announcement that an altercation had occurred inside the cockpit during the flight, prompting members of the airline's crew aboard the aircraft to intervene and secure it.
WAM said the investigation team has begun its work in coordination with the General Civil Aviation Authority and relevant authorities in the UAE. The Public Prosecutor also directed that the necessary procedures be taken to gather information and evidence and establish the facts, circumstances, details, and motives surrounding the incident.
The investigation will also determine whether the incident was linked to any terrorist activity or purpose, or whether it involved prior planning or direction, according to WAM.
The Public Prosecutor stressed that the investigation is still ongoing and urged against speculation or the circulation of unverified information about the incident before the competent authorities complete their collection and verification of the facts.
He stressed the need to rely on information and data issued by official sources and not preempt the findings of the investigation.
WAM also said UAE judicial authorities have jurisdiction to investigate the incident under applicable legislation, given that the aircraft is registered in the UAE and flies its flag. Accordingly, UAE law applies to crimes committed on board the aircraft, even when they occur outside the country's territory.
