Details of the sudden descent
The aircraft experienced a rapid and violent loss of altitude, falling approximately 5,200m (17,000ft) in a period of less than two minutes. Almog Itali, a passenger on board Flight FZ1073, described the harrowing sensation of the sudden drop to the BBC, comparing the experience to riding a "rollercoaster."
The emergency unfolded while the plane was in transit to Israel. The precipitous descent followed reports that a pilot had apparently stabbed his co-pilot during the flight, an incident that led to an immediate crisis within the cockpit and compromised the flight's stability.
Emergency intervention and diversion
In the wake of the cockpit incident, several passengers reportedly took action by attempting to take control of the flight. The situation was further assisted by two other pilots who were located at the rear of the plane; these individuals reportedly came forward to help land the aircraft.
Following these emergency interventions, the flight was diverted from its intended destination. The plane landed in Saudi Arabia to ensure the safety of the passengers and crew after the initial emergency disrupted the flight path.
Immediate context of the event
The incident occurred on Flight FZ1073, which was bound for Israel when the crisis began. The sudden loss of 17,000ft of altitude indicates a significant disruption to the aircraft's normal operation following the reported struggle between the pilot and co-pilot.
The involvement of both passengers and secondary crew members—specifically the two pilots from the rear of the plane—highlights the critical nature of the mid-air emergency. The aircraft's diversion to Saudi Arabia marks the conclusion of the immediate descent following the stabbing incident.