FlyDubai FZ1073 'hijacking' live: Israel flight issues code 7500 as fighter jets scrambled

FlyDubai FZ1073 'hijacking' live: Israel scrambles fighter jets as 'hijack' alert issued A Boeing 737 passenger plane operated by Fly Dubai, flying from Dubai to Israel, transmitted a code 7500 - signalling a possible hijacking A passenger flight heading from Dubai to Israel has issued an emergency code for a possible hijacking. Israeli fighter jets were scrambled after the FlyDubai flight FZ1073 issued the code 7500 alert. The plane had roughly 150 people on baord. Reports suggest the plane may have now headed to Saudi Arabia, although it is no longer on flight tracking radar. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz are said to be holding an urgent security consultation following the incident. Key Events Flight turned around over Saudi Arabia The Times of Israel reports the FlyDubai flight turned around while over Saudi Arabia after issuing an emergency signal. Flight-tracking data cited by the outlet showed the aircraft transmitting 7700, the international code for a general emergency. Plane switched between emergency codes Flight-tracking data reportedly showed the Boeing 737 MAX 8 initially transmitting code 7700, which signals a general emergency, before briefly switching to 7500, the code associated with unlawful interference. The aircraft then switched back to 7700 and was tracked descending near Tabuk in Saudi Arabia. The reason for the emergency remains unclear. More than 150 passengers reportedly onboard More than 150 passengers were reportedly onboard FlyDubai flight FZ1073 when the emergency alert was raised, according to Israeli media. Israeli outlet Ynet reports the aircraft was diverted towards Saudi Arabia after the suspected hijacking alert. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz were also said to be holding an urgent security consultation following the incident. There has still been no confirmation that a hijacking actually took place. Flight issues possible hijacking alert A passenger plane travelling from Dubai to Israel has issued an emergency code associated with a possible hijacking. FlyDubai flight FZ1073 transmitted code 7500 while en route, with fighter jets reportedly scrambled in response.