Daijiworld Media Network - Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, Oct 2: The United Arab Emirates on Friday declared the recent flydubai flight incident an “act of terrorism”, a day after ordering an investigation into the incident.

Anwar Gargash, adviser to UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, made the statement in a post on X. He also praised Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his efforts to avert a potential tragedy and save the lives of 174 people on board.

Gargash said Machchhar’s professionalism and sense of responsibility under difficult circumstances made him a hero. He also called for vigilance in dealing with the threats posed by extremism and terrorism, while cautioning against simplistic conclusions and conspiracy theories.

The UAE had earlier ordered a probe and formed a specialised team from the public prosecution to investigate the incident. Authorities said the UAE had jurisdiction as the incident occurred aboard a flight operating under its flag and UAE law applies to crimes committed on the aircraft.

Investigators are examining the motive of the Omani co-pilot who allegedly attempted to crash the flight carrying 174 people from the UAE to Tel Aviv. The co-pilot, whose identity has not been disclosed, is currently in Saudi Arabia after the aircraft made an emergency landing there.

Israeli authorities, intelligence and security officials have also reached Saudi Arabia to assist with the investigation. The extent of their involvement remains unclear, as Israel and Saudi Arabia do not have formal diplomatic relations.

Authorities are examining multiple possible explanations for the incident. An official quoted by The Associated Press said investigators were looking into all scenarios, including terrorism and mental health-related factors, and that nothing had been ruled out at this stage.