Washington: New details have emerged about Al Hammami, the Omani co-pilot accused of assaulting Indian pilot Smid Machara.
According to the report, Omani authorities reviewed his online activity and later barred him from working as a pilot. However, when he joined another airline, his past conduct was allegedly not shared with the new employer. Concerns were raised that relevant information was not communicated to carriers such as Flydubai, and that the airline also failed to identify the risk.
US Vice President JD Vance said Al Hammami was a “problematic” individual and clarified that he was not connected to US intelligence. Vance said that based on his prior actions, he should not have been permitted to serve as a pilot.
Vance added that the United States is examining its procedures to ensure people who could pose threats are not allowed to operate aircraft. He also said foreign pilots arriving in the US must be monitored for potential security risks.
On speculation about Iran’s role in the Flydubai incident, Vance said he had not seen any firm evidence and would defer to the assessment of US intelligence officials.
