Israeli flight makes emergency landing after pilot is stabbed; passenger is hailed as a hero after overpowering co-pilot

[Cairo Current Affairs] The captain of a passenger plane headed to Israel from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was stabbed by the co-pilot, and the plane made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. Passengers who rushed into the cockpit to resolve the situation are being praised. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu welcomed the returning Israeli passengers on the 1st and praised their "heroic actions."

Sudden descent 'like a roller coaster': Israeli flight passenger recalls horror

According to the Israeli government and other sources, several passengers entered the cockpit immediately after the captain was stabbed and took control of the Omani co-pilot by restraining him with headphone cables. Passengers testified that the co-pilot shouted, "Kill me!"

A plumber who entered the cockpit said, ``I pulled the control stick'' to stabilize the aircraft, referring to a TV documentary about aircraft accidents. He then handed over control to the off-duty pilot who was on board. Netanyahu praised the move, saying it "prevented a disaster and saved many lives." President Herzog decided to award the ``Order of Civilian Heroes'' to five passengers who made significant contributions.

The Indian captain also unlocked the cockpit door while being stabbed in the face. In a statement, Netanyahu paid tribute to the captain's "extraordinary bravery."