Flydubai Pilot Ravi Kumar Attacked on Flight FD123; Investigation Underway
At 14:30 local time on March 12, 2024, a flydubai flight FD123 from Dubai International Airport to Mumbai was interrupted when pilot Ravi Kumar was struck by a passenger. The incident was captured on the aircraft’s in‑flight camera, providing clear evidence of the assault. It underscores the growing concern over crew safety on international routes. The event has prompted immediate action from both the airline and local authorities.
What Happened
The assault unfolded shortly after take‑off from Dubai International Airport. Ravi Kumar, a 38‑year‑old Indian national with 12 years of experience, was seated in the cockpit when Ajay Sharma, a 32‑year‑old passenger, leapt onto the flight deck and struck the pilot with a metal object. The cockpit door was locked, but the passenger managed to breach it, causing a brief but intense struggle. The in‑flight camera captured the moment, showing the pilot’s face and the passenger’s aggressive actions. Dubai Police responded within minutes, arresting Sharma at the gate. Flydubai’s press office released a statement acknowledging the incident
Despite being a low‑cost carrier, flydubai’s average on‑time performance in 2023 outpaced many full‑service airlines in the region.
