Flydubai stabbing: NIA launches probe, registers case under UAPA

New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has launched an investigation into the attack on an Indian pilot aboard a Flydubai flight, registering a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and stringent anti-hijacking laws, according to reports.

Investigators are examining whether the incident was an isolated act or part of a wider terrorist conspiracy involving extremist organisations or networks.

The agency has invoked Sections 16, 18 and 20 of the UAPA in the FIR to investigate possible terrorist objectives, conspiracy and links to terrorist organisations. Officials said the attack on an Indian national, along with the potential threat to the aircraft and its passengers, provides grounds for Indian agencies to pursue the investigation internationally.

Investigators have begun examining the aircraft’s cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and flight data recorder (FDR), with cooperation from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and other relevant authorities. The probe will also focus on collecting digital evidence linked to the accused to establish the circumstances surrounding the assault and determine whether others were involved.

The incident occurred on September 30 aboard a Flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Omani pilot Hammam Al-Hammami allegedly attacked Indian captain Smith Machar while the aircraft was cruising at an altitude of 33,000 feet. The accused reportedly attempted to disrupt the aircraft’s control, raising serious concerns about the safety of everyone on board.

Despite suffering serious injuries, Machar managed to open the cockpit door, enabling passengers and crew members to overpower the attacker. The aircraft subsequently made a safe landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

Israel had also raised suspicions that the attack could have been linked to a terrorist conspiracy. The NIA is now investigating whether the incident involved a broader network targeting India or was an isolated act, with potential international security implications.