Australian security agencies have launched an investigation into the past educational background of Flydubai co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami following an alleged attack on an Indian captain aboard a Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight. Investigators are examining his reported two-year stay in Australia as a student and whether any relevant information from that period could help establish the circumstances surrounding the aviation incident.
Al-Hammami, a 29-year-old Omani national, reportedly received an Australian student visa in 2014 and travelled to the country in 2015 to pursue an engineering course. According to media reports citing sources familiar with the investigation, he remained in Australia until 2017 before leaving the country.
His visa was reportedly cancelled in 2019 after authorities established that he was no longer enrolled in the course.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP), along with other security agencies, are now examining the available information surrounding his time in the country.
Engineering Studies and International Education History
Reports indicate that al-Hammami studied engineering at an Australian university, although the specific institution and details of his academic programme have not been officially confirmed.
His educational background has attracted attention because of the serious allegations against him. Investigators are reportedly assessing whether his time in Australia offers any relevant information about his personal development, associations or possible ideological influences.
However, authorities have not publicly established any connection between his Australian education and the alleged attack.
Apart from his reported engineering studies, al-Hammami also completed an aviation management course through distance learning at Buckinghamshire New University in the United Kingdom. The university confirmed that he completed the programme but clarified that he did not receive pilot training there.
He reportedly graduated in 2023.
Previous Aviation Employment Raises Fresh Questions
Al-Hammami's professional history is also under scrutiny as investigators examine how he progressed through different aviation organisations.
Reports suggest that he previously worked with Oman Air for several years before leaving in February 2025. Sources have also claimed that concerns regarding his alleged extremist views resulted in restrictions on his flying duties in Oman.
He subsequently underwent a theoretical training programme with Morocco's Royal Air Maroc in 2025. However, the airline confirmed that he was not selected for employment after completing the three-month training period.
He later joined Flydubai.
These developments have intensified discussions about international aviation recruitment procedures, employee screening and the exchange of security-related information between countries.
What Happened During the Flydubai Flight?
The investigation follows a serious incident involving Flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30, 2026.
According to official statements and media reports, al-Hammami allegedly attacked Indian captain Smit Machchhar inside the cockpit and attempted to take control of the aircraft.
The aircraft experienced a rapid descent, creating an emergency situation for those onboard. Despite being injured, Captain Machchhar reportedly managed to alert others and open the cockpit door.
Passengers and additional pilots travelling on the aircraft intervened, helping to restrain the co-pilot and stabilise the situation. The flight eventually made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
All passengers reportedly survived the incident.
International Investigation Continues
The Australian investigation forms part of broader international efforts to understand the incident and establish the suspect's background and possible motives.
The United Arab Emirates is leading the main investigation, while Australian authorities are examining the relevant connections within their jurisdiction.
For now, several questions remain unanswered, including the exact circumstances of al-Hammami's alleged radicalisation, his activities during his international education and the effectiveness of previous aviation security assessments.
Officials have yet to establish a complete account of the events. Further findings from the investigation could provide important information about aviation employee screening and international security cooperation.
