A Flydubai rescue flight carrying Israeli passengers has taken off from Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, and is now en route to Israel after the dramatic emergency diversion earlier in the day. The replacement aircraft is expected to land at Ben Gurion Airport around 6:20 p.m., bringing home those who survived the morning’s midair crisis. The original Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight experienced a violent cockpit altercation in which the co-pilot stabbed the captain and allegedly attempted to crash the plane. Israeli passengers and crew members intervened, subdued the attacker, and helped regain control, allowing a safe landing with no passenger injuries. Video from inside the rescue jet shows the wing over desert terrain, cabin scenes with travelers, and preparations for departure. The successful takeoff marks the final stage of the evacuation operation coordinated between Israeli and Saudi authorities. All passengers from the original flight are accounted for and heading home.

The rescue flight represents the swift logistical response that followed the high-stakes confrontation at altitude. Security agencies had scrambled jets and maintained close contact with Saudi officials throughout the day to ensure the travelers’ safe return. Passengers described the earlier ordeal as a near-disaster that was only averted by quick action inside the cabin. The replacement aircraft provides a secure and direct route back to Israel after hours of waiting on the ground in Tabuk. Officials continue examining the full sequence of events that led to the emergency codes and rapid descent. The departure confirms that the immediate crisis has been resolved and that those involved are finally leaving the site of the emergency landing. Families awaiting arrivals at Ben Gurion are expected to greet the passengers later this evening.