Flydubai co-pilot allegedly planned to crash 737 Max into Tel Aviv airport

The first officer of Flydubai flight FZ1073 told Saudi and Emirati investigators he intended not just to crash the aircraft but to steer the Boeing 737 Max into a building or another aircraft at Tel Aviv airport, according to Israeli media reports.

The co-pilot, an Omani national, said he first planned to incapacitate the captain and then fly on normally to receive landing clearances. His account covers the events of September 30.

That plan changed when the injured captain opened the cockpit door and passengers entered. The co-pilot then put the aircraft into a steep descent and tried to destroy instruments in the cockpit to prevent the jet from being saved, according to the reported testimony.

He also said he had the idea for such an attack in mind while looking for a new employer, and that he chose Flydubai deliberately because the airline flies to Tel Aviv. He had travelled to Israel several times with Flydubai in recent months, began gathering information for an attack in June, and intended to carry it out in July but held back at the last moment because a friend was among the crew.

The co-pilot was initially held in Saudi Arabia, the source states. No further details on his current status or on the investigation were provided.