New details are emerging following the terrifying incident aboard an Israel-bound Flydubai flight, during which a co-pilot allegedly stabbed the captain and attempted to crash the aircraft.

The captain has been identified as Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian national, while the co-pilot has been identified as 29-year-old Hamam al-Hammami, an Omani national who previously worked for Oman Air. Reports say al-Hammami had previously been removed from flying duties amid concerns over extremist views, before later joining Flydubai.

As TLS reported, al-Hammami allegedly attacked Machchhar inside the cockpit and attempted to take control of the aircraft, sending the plane plunging thousands of feet within seconds.

Despite being injured, Machchhar managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to enter and subdue the co-pilot. Off-duty pilots who were aboard the flight then assisted in taking control of the aircraft and landing it safely.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later spoke with Machchhar by phone and praised him for his actions, telling the captain, “You are a true hero.”

Authorities are now investigating how al-Hammami was hired and permitted to operate commercial flights despite the reported concerns during his previous employment.

The incident is being investigated as an attempted terrorist attack, with authorities also working to determine whether the co-pilot acted alone or had assistance.

All passengers aboard the flight survived the incident.