Flydubai survivors seek terror victim recognition as legal action takes shape

More than a month after passengers helped prevent an alleged suicide attack aboard a flydubai flight, survivors say they are struggling with psychological trauma without official assistance. Despite public recognition of their actions, Israel has not formally classified the incident as terrorism for the purpose of providing benefits to those aboard.

The ordeal unfolded on September 30 during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Co-pilot Hammam al-Hammami attacked Indian captain Smit Machchhar with an axe, seriously wounding his head, before the aircraft entered a rapid descent. After Tali Mans heard shouting from the cockpit and called for help, the injured captain managed to open the door. Passengers including Yaniv Hayun, Asaf Rajwan, Or Fardilov and Zvika Mans subdued the co-pilot and secured him with headphone cables.

Dr. Shota Musayev, a dentist traveling on the flight, worked to control the captain's bleeding. Two airline pilots aboard as passengers took control and landed the aircraft in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. The passengers later traveled to Israel on another flight. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu subsequently met several of those who intervened, while President Isaac Herzog hosted a reception and presented bravery medals.

On October 9, the United Arab Emirates attorney-general confirmed that the Omani co-pilot had intended to crash the aircraft into Ben-Gurion Airport's passenger terminal, taking inspiration from the September 11 attacks in the United States. During questioning, he said he had prepared for years and used two earlier flights to Israel to study the route and airport. Defense Minister Israel Katz had described the incident as a jihadist terrorist attack on the day it occurred.

Those statements do not themselves establish eligibility for benefits. The National Insurance Institute requires authorization from the Defense Ministry's designated approving authority before recognizing passengers as victims of hostile acts. That determination also depends on investigative material and information from security agencies, including the Shin Bet and Mossad, which are continuing to examine the incident.

Some passengers say no official has contacted them since their return to ask about their condition or offer assistance. The children of one passenger said their mother has trouble sleeping and experiences mood changes, raising concerns that she may be developing post-traumatic stress disorder. They said she is reluctant to seek help from the authorities herself. Other survivors report anxiety and difficulty resuming work and ordinary routines.

Passengers have organized mutual support through a WhatsApp group, including fundraising for people unable to afford urgently needed psychological care. One survivor said some passengers again approached the National Insurance Institute last week but were turned away because recognition had not yet been authorized.

Meanwhile, Calcalist reported that passengers selected Naschitz Brandes Amir to represent them in planned lawsuits against flydubai, the State of Israel and other parties, with claims potentially totaling hundreds of millions of dollars. A committee led by passenger Zvika Mans, CEO of Barak Leumi underwriting company, is coordinating the effort. An expanded meeting with lawyers and passengers is scheduled for next Tuesday to advance proceedings, including a possible claim against the state.

The Defense Ministry said its approving authority remains in contact with the National Insurance Institute and will decide after receiving relevant information from authorized investigators. Mossad said the ministry requested its assessment several days ago and that it would provide a response in the coming days.