Flydubai FZ1073 photos show bloodied passenger after alleged knife struggle with pilot

A new and dramatic detail has emerged from the flydubai FZ1073 incident, after Israeli media published a photograph reportedly showing one of the passengers covered in blood following a violent confrontation aboard the aircraft.

According to Yediot News, the passenger became involved in a struggle with one of the pilots, who was allegedly armed with a knife. The precise circumstances of the confrontation have not yet been officially confirmed.

Reuters separately reported that a passenger described hearing screams and witnessing a violent struggle involving a knife, while an Israeli official said the two pilots had been involved in a physical altercation. Reuters

Flight FZ1073 was traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv when it first transmitted emergency code 7700, followed by 7500, the international code associated with unlawful interference or a possible hijacking.

The Boeing 737 MAX then diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. Israeli officials have said the incident was not a hijacking, and passengers were reported safe following the landing. Reuters

Earlier Israeli reports suggested that one of the pilots may have deliberately placed the aircraft into a steep descent before control was regained. Those claims, including reports of a possible suicide attempt, remain unconfirmed by flydubai or Saudi authorities.

The latest photograph and reports of a knife confrontation add a significant new element to the investigation into what happened aboard FZ1073.