2 Maldivian pilots deported from UAE over alleged flydubai hijacking attempt

Two Maldivian pilots detained in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in connection with an alleged attempt to bring down a flydubai aircraft travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv have been deported to the Maldives.

The two pilots arrived in the Maldives on Friday morning, according to Maldives Police Service spokesperson Ahmed Shiyam.

The pilots, who were employed by flydubai, had been detained in the UAE as part of an investigation into the incident, according to reports by Maldivian media outlets.

Their families were informed of the detention by the Maldives Embassy in the UAE on 8 October.

Speaking to Dhauru, Shiyam confirmed that the two pilots had returned to the Maldives and that police officers had gone to Velana International Airport to question them.

He said police were seeking to clarify information relating to the incident.

"They have not been arrested yet. We are questioning them and clarifying information that needs to be established. If a decision is made to take action against the two pilots, we will announce it once that decision has been made," Shiyam said when asked whether the pilots had been taken into police custody.

The incident occurred on 30 September aboard a flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, Israel, with more than 170 passengers and crew members.

According to reports, the aircraft was flying over Saudi Arabia when the incident occurred.

Passengers and crew reportedly restrained the co-pilot and brought the situation under control.

Israeli officials have described the incident as an attempt to bring down the aircraft.

However, the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident and the precise involvement of the two Maldivian pilots have not been independently established.

Maldives Police have not announced any arrests or charges in connection with the case.

The investigation is continuing, with police expected to determine whether further action will be taken against the two pilots.