Australian security agencies are probing the background of the flydubai co-pilot accused of attempting to hijack an Israel-bound flight, following reports he lived in Australia for nearly two years as a student. The incident unfolded mid-air on Wednesday, when passengers and crew reportedly thwarted the co-pilot’s attempt to seize control of the aircraft carrying 182 people, which then descended sharply by over 16,000 feet. Authorities are now examining whether his time in Australia holds any relevance to the alleged attack. The case raises fresh questions about screening and monitoring of aviation personnel with overseas ties.
Police confirm investigation into period the man reportedly spent in Australia before alleged attempted terrorist attackGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastAustralian security agencies have launched an investigation after it emerged that the flydubai co-pilot who allegedly tried to hijack an Israel-bound flight spent about two years in the country as a student.Disaster was narrowly averted on Wednesday when passengers and crew intervened to stop the co-pilot’s attempt to take control of the flydubai flight to Tel Aviv, which had 182 people onboard and plunged 16,625 feet (5,067 metres) in just over 30 seconds. Continue reading...
