FlyDubai Flight to Tel Aviv Issues Distress Signal

Flydubai has temporarily suspended flights to and from Israel. The decision was made as an investigation continues into an incident involving an aircraft travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, 24KZ reports.

The crew issued a distress signal and a code indicating a possible hijacking. The aircraft then rapidly lost altitude, changed course and made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia, sustaining damage to its tail section. Several people were injured.

The suspected hijacking was later ruled out. According to the airline, the incident was caused by a conflict between the pilots.

Flydubai said it is cooperating with aviation regulators and added that the decision on resuming flights will be reviewed as new information becomes available.