New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday hailed Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar as a “HERO” after the flydubai captain was seriously injured during a dramatic cockpit confrontation on a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
Modi said Machchhar displayed immense courage despite being injured and remained determined to protect the lives of those aboard the aircraft. The Prime Minister said the pilot’s actions helped save hundreds of lives and avert a major tragedy, adding that “India is proud” of him. He also prayed for Machchhar’s speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health.
The Prime Minister’s comments came hours after details emerged of the incident involving flydubai Flight FZ1073. The Boeing 737 was travelling from Dubai International Airport to Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv on Wednesday when an altercation reportedly broke out inside the cockpit.
According to reports, Machchhar was attacked and seriously injured by his Omani co-pilot, who allegedly attempted to interfere with the aircraft’s operation. Despite his injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to intervene. Two off duty flydubai pilots who were travelling as passengers also helped operate the aircraft. The plane was eventually diverted and landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
The aircraft was carrying 174 passengers, and all those aboard were reported safe. Machchhar was taken to a hospital in Tabuk for treatment and was reported to be in stable condition. Indian authorities said he was receiving medical attention while officials remained in contact with those involved.
PM Modi speaks to pilot’s family
Modi’s response went beyond his public message. Government sources said the Prime Minister also spoke with Machchhar’s wife and parents, praised his bravery and assured the family that Indian missions were providing all possible assistance while he receives treatment in Saudi Arabia.
The Ministry of External Affairs separately said Indian authorities were closely following Machchhar’s condition. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also praised the pilot’s courage, saying he remained brave despite suffering grave injuries.
Investigation into cockpit incident continues
The exact circumstances surrounding the confrontation, including the motive attributed to the co-pilot, remain under investigation. Authorities have not publicly established a final explanation for the incident.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also publicly praised Machchhar following the emergency, while the pilot’s actions have drawn international attention.
For Modi, the incident has become an occasion to publicly recognise the Indian captain’s conduct under extreme circumstances. As Machchhar continues his recovery in Saudi Arabia, the Prime Minister’s message has placed the pilot’s courage and concern for passenger safety at the centre of India’s official response.
ALSO READ: Netanyahu Hails Indian Pilot’s Bravery After Stabbing Incident on Dubai-Tel Aviv Flight
-
-
-
-
