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Diverted flydubai flight to Israel is not believed to be a hijacking incident, Israeli prime minister’s office said

Cyprus Mail · 2026-09-30

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: A Flydubai flight from Dubai to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv was diverted to Saudi Arabia after transmitting emergency codes, but Israeli officials do not believe it was a hijacking. • Why it matters: The incident raised concerns about air safety and security protocols in the region, prompting a swift military response from Israel, which highlights ongoing tensions in Middle Eastern air travel. • What to watch next: Further updates from Flydubai and authorities are expected as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the emergency codes and the safety of passengers.

**Diverted Flydubai Flight to Israel Not Considered a Hijacking, Israeli Officials Confirm**

On Wednesday, a Flydubai flight en route from Dubai to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv was diverted to Saudi Arabia, raising concerns and prompting a swift response from Israeli authorities. However, a spokesperson for the Israeli prime minister's office has stated that the incident is not believed to be a hijacking.

The flight, which had been carrying passengers from Dubai, transmitted emergency codes during its journey, leading to the activation of Israel's defense protocols. In response to the situation, Israeli military officials scrambled fighter jets to monitor the aircraft as it changed course.

The diversion to Saudi Arabia has sparked discussions regarding air safety and security protocols in the region. The nature of the emergency codes transmitted by the aircraft remains unclear, but such alerts typically indicate potential distress or technical issues that require immediate attention.

Flydubai, a low-cost airline based in Dubai, has not yet released an official statement regarding the incident. Passengers on board the flight and their families are likely seeking more information about the circumstances surrounding the diversion and the safety of those involved.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions and security concerns in the Middle East, where air travel can be complicated by geopolitical factors. The quick response from Israeli military forces underscores the seriousness with which such situations are treated, even when initial assessments suggest that there is no immediate threat.

As investigations continue, authorities will likely review the circumstances that led to the emergency codes being transmitted and ensure that appropriate measures are in place to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Further updates from Flydubai and relevant authorities are anticipated as they work to clarify the situation and provide reassurance to passengers and the public.

Source: Cyprus Mail
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