Dialogos

Cypriot Flight Attendant Detained for Investigation into Libyan Plane Crash in Turkey

Published January 13, 2026, 13:03
Cypriot Flight Attendant Detained for Investigation into Libyan Plane Crash in Turkey

A Cypriot flight attendant has been detained by Turkish authorities for investigation into the crash of the Libyan plane near Ankara. The flight attendant, a member of the crew that had flown the aircraft to Turkey, was taken from the hotel where she was staying following initiatives by MIT and an order from the Ankara Public Prosecutor's Office. The flight attendant was questioned by the Anti-Terrorism Unit, without any concrete evidence emerging in the initial stage. Investigations continue to explore her contacts and connections. The process was carried out discreetly due to her Cypriot citizenship. The plane crash resulted in the deaths of the Libyan army chief, Mohamed Ali Al-Hadad, and members of his entourage. The aircraft lost contact shortly after takeoff from Ankara. The investigation is being conducted jointly by the judiciary, police and intelligence services. The plane's 'black box' will be examined in the United Kingdom, while questions remain unanswered regarding the use of a private aircraft and changes to the flight crew.