Alleged Flydubai hijacker said 9/11 attacks spurred him to become a pilot, early investigation finds

UAE probe examines alleged Flydubai hijacking plot targeting Ben Gurion Airport

Earthguardiansonline.com – Alleged Flydubai hijacker said 9 11 attacks inspired his decision to become a pilot, according to preliminary findings from a UAE investigation into an attempted hijacking of a Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight. Authorities allege the co-pilot intended to crash the aircraft into Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv.

The September 30 flight was stopped after the captain and several passengers restrained the accused co-pilot and regained control of the aircraft. UAE authorities say the suspected plot had a terrorist motive and was aimed at Israel’s main international airport.

Investigators allege that Hamam al-Hammami, 29, planned to use the passenger aircraft as a weapon against the airport terminal, seeking to cause the greatest possible number of casualties. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities review evidence and assess whether others had any knowledge of or involvement in the alleged plan.

Investigation cites alleged influence of the September 11 attacks

Attorney General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi said in a statement carried by Emirati state media that the accused pilot had been influenced by the September 11, 2001 attacks in the United States. The alleged Flydubai hijacker said 9 11 attacks created the idea of carrying out a similar operation using an aircraft.

The idea of carrying out a similar operation using an aircraft became firmly established in his mind, which, according to his confessions, was connected to his decision to pursue a career in aviation.

Nearly 3,000 people were killed in the 9/11 attacks, when hijacked commercial aircraft were crashed into three locations in the United States. The attacks prompted major changes to cockpit security, airport screening and airline safety procedures worldwide.

The UAE statement described the alleged plan as a prepared suicide attack against Ben Gurion Airport’s passenger terminal. Israeli officials had previously indicated that the airport was likely the intended target.

Authorities examine previous Tel Aviv flights and alleged preparation

According to investigators, the September 30 flight was not the accused co-pilot’s first trip to Tel Aviv. He had previously been assigned to two flights to Ben Gurion Airport, which authorities believe may have allowed him to become familiar with the route and airport environment.

Ben Gurion Airport is Israel’s principal international gateway, making any alleged threat to the facility a major security concern. Officials are examining technical reports and recorded material as part of the continuing inquiry.

Investigators said al-Hammami began adopting extremist and terrorist ideas in 2017 while studying in Australia. The inquiry alleges that he was influenced by extremist publications and online material praising terrorist organizations and suicide attacks.

Authorities also said he sought psychological and physical preparation, including greater exposure to material encouraging terrorism and boxing training with a private coach. He told investigators that he acted alone, according to the attorney general, though officials are still assessing whether anyone else offered support or assistance.

Airline employment history and hiring checks under review

The preliminary inquiry also reviewed the accused pilot’s aviation employment history. He worked for Oman Air from 2020 to 2024, spent several months connected with Royal Air Maroc in 2025, and joined Flydubai in January 2026.

Earlier information indicated that Oman Air removed him from flight training over concerns about radical views and moved him to another role. Royal Air Maroc said he trained with the airline for three months in 2025 during a pre-employment process but was not selected.

UAE authorities said their initial review found that he had met Flydubai’s required professional and security standards when he was hired. The checks included a pilot’s license, a certificate of good conduct and required examinations.

Frequently asked questions

What is the alleged target in the Flydubai case?

UAE investigators say the suspected target was Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv, specifically its passenger terminal. The allegation remains part of an active investigation.

Was the flight able to land safely?

Yes. Authorities said the captain and several passengers restrained the accused co-pilot and regained control of the aircraft, preventing the alleged plan from being carried out.

What should passengers do if they witness a serious disruption on a flight?

Passengers should follow crew instructions, remain calm and avoid interfering unless directly asked to help. Airline staff and flight crews are trained to coordinate responses to onboard security incidents.