US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has stated that airlines are likely to implement enhanced screenings of pilots and flight attendants following the attempted hijacking of a flydubai flight. Huckabee referred to the incident as 'a 9/11 situation' during an episode of 'Pod Force One.' He questioned how the co-pilot, Hamam al-Hammami, was hired, suggesting that airlines may have overlooked his background due to a shortage of pilots. Huckabee emphasized the need for airlines to examine crew members' social media accounts for potential red flags.
The attempted hijacking occurred last month when al-Hammami allegedly attacked the captain with an axe during a flight bound for Israel. The situation was resolved when the injured captain managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers to intervene and regain control of the aircraft. Huckabee noted that the co-pilot had reportedly researched potential attacks and had an obsession with crashing a passenger jet on Israeli soil.
Huckabee suggested that enhanced security measures may be adopted globally, not just for flights to Israel. He highlighted the importance of screening flight attendants as well, given their access to the cockpit. He described the incident as a close call, stating that the plane was 'probably 30 seconds from hitting the ground.'
Israeli plumber Yaniv Hayoun played a crucial role in stabilizing the aircraft after the terrorist was subdued, despite having no prior flying experience. Another pilot on board, identified as Australian, successfully landed the plane. Huckabee praised Hayoun for his actions, noting the dramatic turn of events for someone typically engaged in plumbing work.