PM Modi Praises Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar Following Cockpit Attack, Says ‘India Is Proud of Him’

Summary:
Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar was praised for his courage after allegedly being attacked by his co-pilot during a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Despite suffering serious injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to intervene and restrain the alleged attacker, helping protect 174 lives. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with officials from India, Israel and the United States, commended his actions and wished him a speedy recovery. Flydubai has temporarily suspended flights to and from Israel as investigations and aviation security reviews continue. 

A sudden emergency that unfolded inside an aircraft thousands of feet above the ground had the potential to become a devastating aviation disaster. However, Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar, even after sustaining serious injuries, displayed remarkable courage that helped create an opportunity for passengers to reach safety. Following the incident aboard a Flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Captain Machchhar as a “hero”. His actions have since drawn attention in India, Israel and the United States.

Flydubai Cockpit Attack: PM Modi Says ‘India Is Proud of Captain Machchhar’

The events aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073 have once again highlighted the importance of aviation security and the courage required from pilots during emergencies. In a post on X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Captain Smit Machchhar, saying that he displayed exceptional courage despite suffering serious injuries and helped protect the lives of others. The Prime Minister also expressed his wishes for Machchhar’s quick recovery.

The incident occurred while the aircraft was flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv. According to reports, Captain Machchhar was allegedly attacked with a knife inside the cockpit by his co-pilot, who was also accused of attempting to damage the aircraft. Despite being wounded, Machchhar succeeded in opening the cockpit door, allowing passengers and members of the relief team to intervene and overpower the alleged attacker.

As the situation unfolded, passengers experienced powerful jolts aboard the aircraft. Passenger Almog Itli said the plane briefly made a sharp descent before regaining stability. The aircraft was subsequently diverted to Saudi Arabia and landed safely. The passengers were later transported to Tel Aviv on another flight.

Flydubai Cockpit Attack: Crucial Role in Protecting 174 Lives

The Indian Embassy described Captain Machchhar’s actions as extraordinary. Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also praised his response, stating that despite his serious injuries, he managed to open the cockpit door, giving passengers and crew members the opportunity to intervene. Israeli officials said the combined efforts ultimately helped save 174 lives.

Passengers also contributed to bringing the situation under control. Reports said Israeli passenger Yaniv Hayun helped restrain the alleged attacker. US President Donald Trump also publicly commended the courage shown by Captain Machchhar and Hayun.

Captain Machchhar has extensive experience in the aviation sector. He has accumulated approximately 9,750 flying hours and previously spent around 11 years working with SpiceJet. He is also trained and experienced in flying Boeing 737 aircraft.

While the investigation continues, Flydubai has temporarily suspended flights to and from Israel. Aviation safety authorities are also examining security procedures in the aftermath of the incident.