Maldives police have begun questioning two pilots who were repatriated from the United Arab Emirates after being detained over an alleged plot to crash a Flydubai aircraft bound for Israel.
The two men, the most recent recruits among six Maldivian pilots employed by the airline, arrived at Velana International Airport and were met by officers for immediate interviews. Police said no decision has yet been taken on formal arrest or charges.
They had spent 12 days in UAE custody without access to lawyers or contact with their families. The incident reportedly involved an attempt by one pilot to attack the captain with an emergency axe in the cockpit. The aircraft lost altitude by approximately 17,000 feet before the captain opened the door and passengers and crew subdued the assailant.
The flight was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. UAE authorities investigated the matter before returning the pilots to the Maldives. Maldivian officials have been in contact with Emirati counterparts regarding the case.
Police have not released further details of the questioning. The case has drawn attention because of the severity of the alleged actions and the length of detention without standard rights.
Flydubai has not publicly commented on the status of the two pilots. Investigations in both countries remain ongoing.
