New Delhi, October 3, 2026: Hamam al-Hammami, the Omani co-pilot accused of attacking Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar aboard a Flydubai flight to Tel Aviv, had previously come under scrutiny over alleged extremist views, according to reports citing intelligence and law-enforcement sources.
Al-Hammami had worked with Oman Air for nearly seven years. Reports say he was removed from flight training after concerns emerged over extremist material and radical views. Sources cited by international media differ on the exact timeline and circumstances, with some reporting the concerns arose in 2024 and others placing his removal from flying duties later.
Deleted social-media posts attributed to al-Hammami reportedly included views advocating that his future wife wear a niqab and stop working after marriage. Other posts reportedly criticised mixed-gender workplaces and expressed conservative religious views about women.
The UAE is investigating the Flydubai cockpit attack, including whether it was connected to terrorist activity or was premeditated. Authorities are also examining digital and other evidence to establish the suspect’s motives and possible links.
