Israeli fighter jets were scrambled to intercept the aircraft, which is carrying dozens of Israeli citizens. Authorities are investigating a possible hijacking, and Channel 12 reports that communication with the plane has been lost. Other FlyDubai flights are currently using alternative routes to reach Tel Aviv and Amman.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
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Israel Scrambles Fighter Jets After FlyDubai Flight Signals Hijacking
Geopolitics21 days ago
A Boeing 737 MAX flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv diverted into Saudi Arabian airspace after transmitting international emergency and hijacking signals. The FlyDubai flight first broadcast the 7700 general emergency code before switching to 7500, the specific signal for a hijacking, while turning around over northern Saudi Arabia. Flight tracking data showed the aircraft entered a sharp right turn and dropped to an altitude of 15,000 feet before recovering to level flight and continuing away from Israel.
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