The Israeli Air Force has three C-130 Hercules aircraft ready to evacuate Israeli passengers stranded at Saudi Arabia’s Tabuk Airport after the Flydubai cockpit incident, but Saudi authorities have not yet approved its request, Israeli media reported. The passengers were aboard flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv, which diverted after a suspected attack on the captain.

Two recovery flights were also airborne, with the first approaching Tabuk, as the airport coordinated with Flydubai on replacement transport. Passengers have been taken to the terminal and are receiving assistance, the airport said. Both the captain and first officer were hospitalized with injuries; all passengers are safe and accounted for.

The diverted flight carried about 180 passengers. Israeli authorities are investigating a suspected terrorist attack after the co-pilot allegedly stabbed the captain and was subdued by passengers and crew, N12 reported. Two additional pilots aboard as part of a training exercise landed the aircraft. The motive remains under investigation, with Israeli officials also examining other explanations, including a mental health episode unrelated to terrorism.