FlyDubai Attack

Passengers and crew foiled an attempted hijacking on a FlyDubai flight on Wednesday.

FlyDubai Flight 1073 was two hours into its trip to Tel Aviv from Dubai when the co-pilot stabbed his captain in an attempt to crash the plane. The aircraft’s wounded captain managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing crew and passengers (including a plumber and dentist) to help subdue the assailant. One untrained passenger helped regain control of the 737 Max, which had dropped 14,000+ feet during the altercation, and an off-duty pilot aboard made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia (see passengers’ on-ground relief).

Upon landing, Captain Smit Machchhar was hospitalized while the co-pilot was arrested.

Machchhar has been lauded as a hero by officials for his “immense courage and an unwavering resolve,” and is in stable condition. Meanwhile, an international investigation into the attacker’s motive is underway.

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PRAY WITH US
God of Mercy, come near to us as this act of violence implodes any sense of order and security, upends any semblance of peace. Heal physical wounds, and hold fast the anxious who fear the journey over the jet bridge and into a cloudy expanse of helpless dependence.

God Who Stoops Down, You sent Your Son to confront the powers of darkness to disarm, dethrone, and banish them. He entered a violent world and suffered at the hands of violent men to buy a costly redemption. You have come near to us in Jesus, shining Your piercing, cleansing light in bitter darkness. We cling to You. Bring Your justice and restoration and hope. Amen.