Here’s what we know so far:
-The Boeing 737 MAX 8 was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv when it transmitted emergency codes 7700, indicating a general emergency, and 7500, indicating unlawful interference.
-Flight-tracking data showed the aircraft undergoing a dramatic change in altitude, with Reuters reporting it plunged nearly 14,000ft in less than 30 seconds.
-The aircraft diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. FlyDubai has confirmed all passengers are safe and accounted for.
-Israel scrambled fighter jets as the emergency unfolded, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held consultations and his office later said the incident was “under control”.
-An Israeli official told Reuters that a physical altercation between the two pilots took place during the flight.
-Passengers have given dramatic accounts of screams, a knife, blood and people intervening during the incident. AP reports passengers also described the aircraft dipping steeply.
– Numerous reports have emerged about a ‘hero’ passenger and others on board who reportedly intervened and helped restrain the alleged attacker during the mid-air incident.
-No definitive motive has been officially established yet, with FlyDubai has so far describing what happened as an “incident”
