The investigation into the flydubai hijack attempt has widened significantly as New Zealand authorities launch a probe into the alleged hijacker's flight training. The co-pilot, Hamam al-Hammami, 29, reportedly underwent training in New Zealand about a year after abandoning a degree in Australia.
Disaster was narrowly averted on 30 September when passengers and crew intervened to stop the alleged attempt to take control of a flight to Tel Aviv with 182 people onboard. Hammami, an Omani national, allegedly used a crash axe in the attempted "terrorist attack," during which the pilot was stabbed mid-air, according to the United Arab Emirates' prosecutor general.
New Zealand Investigation into Flight Training
New Zealand police have confirmed that Hammami was in the country on a student visa for 175 days, from 30 November 2018 to 23 May 2019. Assistant Commissioner Michael Johnson stated that Hammami was completing a portion of his flight training for a UK-based company that no longer operates in New Zealand.
"Police can confirm the co-pilot was in New Zealand to complete a portion of his flight training for a UK-based company, no longer operating in New Zealand," Johnson said. The police are now investigating his time in the country to understand his activities and associations during that period.
International Scrutiny Intensifies
New Zealand joins multiple countries scrambling to piece together Hammami's background and intentions, as well as to establish if he acted alone. Over the weekend, Australian authorities also confirmed they are investigating his time there after he abandoned a degree.
Israeli and other officials in the region suspect he originally planned for such an attack in July but postponed it. The international dimension of the investigation highlights the complex nature of modern security threats.
Key Takeaways from the Investigation
- New Zealand police have launched an investigation into the alleged hijacker's flight training.
- Hamam al-Hammami was in New Zealand on a student visa for 175 days in 2018-2019.
- He was completing flight training for a UK-based company that is no longer operating in New Zealand.
- Multiple countries, including Australia and Israel, are investigating his background.
- The attack was thwarted by passengers and crew, with the pilot stabbed but surviving.
Comparison of International Investigations
| Country | Investigation Focus | Status |
|---|---|---|
| New Zealand | Flight training and activities during 175-day stay | Ongoing |
| Australia | Abandoned degree and time in country | Ongoing |
| Israel | Potential planned attack in July | Ongoing |
| UAE | Prosecution of hijacker | Ongoing |
FAQ
What happened on the flydubai flight?
On 30 September, a co-pilot allegedly attempted to hijack a flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv. Passengers and crew intervened, subduing the attacker. The pilot was stabbed but survived, and the plane landed safely.
Why is New Zealand investigating the co-pilot?
New Zealand authorities confirmed that the co-pilot, Hamam al-Hammami, was in the country on a student visa for 175 days in 2018-2019 to complete flight training. They are investigating his activities and associations during that time.
What is known about the alleged hijacker's background?
Hamam al-Hammami is an Omani national who abandoned a degree in Australia before training in New Zealand. He allegedly used a crash axe in the attack. Multiple countries are investigating his background to determine if he acted alone.