A senior UAE official has praised Indian Flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar for his courage and professionalism during what he described as a “dangerous terrorist act” on Wednesday. Anwar Gargash, adviser to UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed, said Machchhar showed courage and responsibility while facing a situation that could have resulted in a major disaster.
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Thursday that a specialised team of public prosecutors had been assigned to investigate the incident and establish its circumstances and causes. It added that UAE law applies to crimes committed on board the aircraft, even when they take place outside the country’s territory. The investigation will examine all aspects of the incident, including the motives involved and whether there was any link to terrorist activity or intent. Authorities will also look into whether the incident involved prior planning or direction.
Because the aircraft is registered in the UAE and flies its flag, the ministry said UAE judicial authorities have jurisdiction.
The incident remains under investigation by UAE authorities, who are examining its circumstances, motives and any possible links to terrorist activity or prior planning. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister’s spokesperson David Mencer said the attempt to bring down the Flydubai flight appeared similar to the September 11 attacks in the United States.
The UAE also thanked Saudi authorities for their cooperation and for their handling of the incident, according to the ministry.
