Flydubai co-pilot spent two years in Australia

Australian security agencies are probing the roughly two years a Flydubai co-pilot spent in Australia after he allegedly tried to seize a flight carrying 182 people.

Police said passengers and crew intervened on Wednesday to stop the alleged attempt and that the aircraft plunged 16,625 feet (5,067 metres) in just over 30 seconds before control was restored.

Australian security agencies probe

Police and federal security agencies said they are examining the period the co-pilot spent in Australia as a student, about two years, reviewing travel records, visa history and residency details as part of the inquiry.

Officials said the man has not been publicly identified and that inquiries will cover whether any contacts or activity during that period are relevant to the alleged incident aboard the Tel Aviv–bound flight.

Authorities said the probe will involve immigration and national security units and that investigators are liaising with foreign partners about the crew member's background and training history.

Police said they will provide an update within 72 hours.