Emirates-bound flydubai flight makes emergency landing in Saudi Arabia following false security alarm

RIYADH, Sept. 30 (YPA) – A Flydubai flight bound for Israel made an emergency landing at a Saudi airport on Wednesday after diverting its route following an onboard violent altercation between two passengers over cigarette smoking, which prompted the pilot to activate a distress signal and raise a security alert.

The aircraft temporarily lost contact for several minutes while en route from Dubai, carrying 150 Israeli nationals.

The incident triggered a security response in “Israel”, where military aircraft were scrambled to the location and takeoffs were temporarily suspended.

According to Israeli media reports, the pilot established direct contact with Saudi air traffic authorities and secured approval for an emergency landing without Israeli intervention. The aircraft landed safely in Saudi Arabia, escorted by Saudi fighter jets without interception.

YPA