Flydubai Fires Staff Over Security Lapses as Israel and UAE Discuss Resuming Flights
Flydubai fired background check staff following a terror plot, as Israel and the UAE negotiate restored flights and tightened aviation security protocols.
Flydubai has fired the personnel responsible for crew background checks following a thwarted terror attack, according to sources. The development comes as Israel and the United Arab Emirates discuss resuming the airline's operations and enhancing security measures.
During a meeting between Israeli Transport Minister Miri Regev and UAE Ambassador Mohammed Al Khaja, the Emirati side expressed a desire to restore Flydubai's ten daily flights and expand overall aviation activity. Regev was invited to visit the UAE next week, with Israeli officials considering including representatives from the Shin Bet and the National Security Council (NSC).
New Aviation Security Protocols
Israel is pressing for a rapid overhaul of aerial entry screening mechanisms. In a letter to the head of the NSC, Regev proposed introducing an "aviation visa" or equivalent document for all passengers and aircrews on foreign, Israeli, and charter flights, to be submitted 48 hours prior to departure.
Regev also requested that the Mossad and the Shin Bet compile a list of high-risk security destinations. Airlines operating flights from these locations would be required to submit passenger and crew manifests 48 hours in advance for security clearance.
Budgetary and Jurisdictional Disputes
The discussions also highlight ongoing friction regarding aviation security responsibilities and budget allocation. Regev emphasized that the Ministry of Transport requires an immediate allocation of 40 million shekels and ten dedicated positions to properly oversee security for non-risk charter flights, warning that cabinet directives cannot be fully implemented without these resources.
