Investigation into the attempted hijacking of Flydubai flight FZ1073

As investigators across the Middle East continue to investigate the alleged hijacking attempt on Flydubai flight FZ1073, from Dubai International Airport to Tel Aviv, here we take a look at what we know - and what we don't know - about the incident.

What was the motive behind the attack?

Investigators are still trying to determine what prompted the Omani suspect, whose identity has not been revealed, to launch an attack on his fellow pilot. The UAE is investigating whether the violence is linked to "terrorist activity." Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told CNN that it was too early to determine whether Iran was involved, before later telling Fox News that the alleged attacker "had undergone a process of indoctrination with extremist Islamic ideas."

What weapon is used?

The plane's passengers, along with various officials, described the pilot as having been "stabbed." While investigators have not yet revealed any details about the weapon used, Netanyahu said that the pilot was stabbed or beaten with an axe.

How was it possible to bring a knife or an ax onto the plane?

Netanyahu said the plane's co-pilot may not have been required to pass through a metal detector and therefore "could have carried a knife or an axe," or may have used an ax that was already on board. Under air safety rules, an emergency ax is mandatory equipment on most passenger aircraft, and is used in emergency situations to fight fires, break doors and windows, and remove obstacles.

Who is the attacker and where is he now?

Saudi authorities arrested the alleged attacker and subjected him to interrogation. His identity has not been revealed publicly except that he is an Omani citizen. Netanyahu said he would be transferred to the UAE for questioning, with Israel participating in the investigation.

What is the condition of the pilot who was attacked?

Captain Smit Machhar, the injured Indian pilot, underwent surgery on Wednesday and was in stable condition, according to a local political official in his hometown.

Who flew the plane and landed it?

Flydubai said that the plane “was successfully secured by the Flydubai crew on duty who was on board the flight, who diverted its course and landed it safely at Tabuk Airport.”

How does the pilot screening process work?

Israel has some of the most stringent aviation security protocols in the world. An Israeli security official told CNN that the Israeli internal security service, Shin Bet, is supposed to examine all airline workers who travel to Israel from the UAE.