Israel Strengthens Flight Safety Checks Following FlyDubai Plane Plot

Jerusalem, October 30: Israel has tightened its airline security framework about a month after an alleged terror attack aboard a FlyDubai aircraft was foiled. The updated rules affect both foreign and domestic carriers that fly to or from the country.

Carriers must now provide details of their flight crews 48 hours ahead of departure. The directive follows a security review ordered by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and its purpose is to allow adequate time for background screening of passengers and crew.

Airlines are also required to report any crew changes at least two hours before takeoff, followed by a final crew manifest at the moment the plane departs.

The rules, issued by the National Center for Passenger Data Analysis, apply to all incoming and outgoing airline flights in Israel, regardless of carrier nationality.

Foreign nationals heading to Israel, including pilots, cabin crew and travelers, must complete an online entry form 48 hours before arriving. The Population Authority will process the information in these forms.

Furthermore, Mossad and Shin Bet have placed some countries in a 'red' risk category. Prospective visitors from those nations will have their entry forms and visa requests examined more closely.

Shin Bet, which once supervised security only for Israeli airlines and their departing flights, will now also supervise foreign carriers serving Israel and their overseas departure locations.

The measures were prompted by an incident on September 30, when a FlyDubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv was attacked mid-air. Reports identify Omani co-pilot Hammam Al Hammami as the attacker, who allegedly struck Indian pilot Captain Smit Macchar with a crash axe. The UAE's prosecutors termed the episode a terror attack.

Despite grave injuries, Captain Macchar reached the cockpit door and managed to open it. Crew members and passengers then intervened to bring the co-pilot under control, helping to avert a possible catastrophe.

Earlier this week, the UAE honored Captain Macchar and the FlyDubai crew for their bravery and professionalism during the incident. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan awarded the crew the First Class Order of Zayed II. Leaders in India, the UAE, Israel and the United States have also commended the captain's heroism.