‘Definition Of Terrorism’: Ex-US Defence Secretary Calls Flydubai Attack A ‘Massive Security Failure’

Last Updated:October 03, 2026, 09:36 IST

The development has raised questions over how the suspect was able to work as a pilot for Flydubai and operate a flight carrying passengers despite his previous employment record.

Panetta’s remarks came after details emerged about the attacker’s previous employment history

Former US Defence Secretary Leon Panetta has described the Flydubai incident of attacking Indian captain Smit Machchhar as “the very definition of terrorism” and a “massive security failure”, following reports that the suspected attacker had previously been removed from an Oman Air job after expressing extremist views.

Panetta’s remarks came after details emerged about the attacker’s previous employment history. He had reportedly worked for Oman Air before being removed from the position after allegedly expressing extremist views.

The development has raised further questions over how the suspect was able to work as a pilot for Flydubai and operate a flight carrying passengers despite his previous employment record.

The Omani co-pilot accused of attacking Smit Machchhar has been identified as 29-year-old Hamam Al-Hammami, with fresh reports pointing to his past in Syria and alleged extremist views.

Cockpit Attack

During the September 30 incident, Al-Hammami allegedly stabbed Machchhar, sending the Boeing 737 into a steep descent.

Despite his injuries, the Indian pilot managed to open the cockpit door, enabling crew members and passengers to enter and intervene. Two off-duty pilots travelling on the flight also assisted in regaining control of the aircraft before it made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

Al-Hammami was subsequently transferred to the UAE, where the investigation into the incident is continuing.

However, UAE authorities have not officially confirmed his identity so far, despite the reports. The UAE-led probe remains underway, with officials yet to publicly disclose his name or background.

Quick Answers

Powered by

Ask News18

What did former US Defence Secretary Leon Panetta say about the Flydubai attack?

Former US Defence Secretary Leon Panetta described the cockpit attack on Indian captain Smit Machchhar as “the very definition of terrorism” and a “massive security failure” following reports about the suspect’s background.

How did the Flydubai cockpit attack unfold on September 30?

During the flight, co-pilot Hamam Al-Hammami allegedly stabbed captain Smit Machchhar, sending the aircraft into a steep descent. Despite his injuries, Machchhar opened the cockpit door, allowing crew, passengers, and two off-duty pilots to intervene before an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

What background details have emerged regarding the suspected attacker?

The Omani co-pilot was identified as 29-year-old Hamam Al-Hammami, with reports indicating a past in Syria and alleged extremist views. He had previously worked for Oman Air before being removed from that job for expressing extremist views, raising questions about how he was hired by Flydubai.

Powered by

Ask News18

About the Author

Aanchal SinhaSub Editor

Aanchal is the Sub-Editor at News18.com, with more than four years of experience in national and international news. My work involves covering breaking news, politics, current affairs and developments…Read More

Read More