Australian authorities are investigating the links between the country and a Flydubai co-pilot who allegedly attempted to seize control of a plane en route to Israel. The co-pilot reportedly attacked the captain with a crash axe during the flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30, before passengers and reserve pilots intervened.

Australian Federal Police (AFP) confirmed its investigation into the man's connections to Australia. The inquiry involves state police and the nation's security agency, with an assurance that updates will be provided when appropriate. The co-pilot has been identified by multiple international media outlets as Hamam al-Hammami, though Australian authorities have not officially named him.

Sources familiar with the case have indicated that the co-pilot held a student visa in Australia from 2014 and studied in the country between 2015 and 2017 before departing. His student visa was reportedly cancelled in 2019 due to his withdrawal from his course, rendering him ineligible. Counter-terrorism officials are examining whether the individual may have been radicalized while in Australia.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the co-pilot was an Omani national. The flight, carrying over 170 passengers, experienced a severe altitude drop of approximately 17,000 feet when the alleged attack occurred, according to the UAE prosecutor general. The pilot, Captain Smit Machchhar, described the critical moments of regaining control to allow passengers access to the cockpit.

The UAE prosecutor general, Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, announced that investigations are underway to determine the circumstances, motives, and any potential links to the incident. He suggested that investigations indicated the co-pilot attempted to carry out a terrorist act. The co-pilot was apprehended following the emergency landing in Saudi Arabia and is currently being questioned by Saudi authorities.

Further details have emerged regarding the co-pilot's employment history. Reports suggest that while employed by Oman Air, he was removed from flight training due to concerns over radical views, and subsequently reassigned to a different role within the Omani national airline.

Captain Machchhar, an Indian national, received medical attention after the incident and is reported to be in a stable condition. The diversion to Saudi Arabia allowed two reserve pilots to safely land the aircraft, averting a potential disaster.

The incident raises significant questions for aviation security and the screening processes for airline personnel. The involvement of Australian authorities highlights the international dimension of the investigation and the potential for individuals to pose security risks after residing in multiple countries.