Mumbai: The State of Israel has launched a special public appreciation campaign in Mumbai to honor Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his extraordinary bravery during a recent in-flight crisis. Large billboards have been put up at prominent locations across the city, expressing gratitude for saving 174 lives.
The initiative follows a harrowing incident aboard a flydubai flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. During the flight, an altercation occurred on the flight deck when the co-pilot attacked Captain Machchhar. Despite sustaining severe injuries to his neck and hands, Captain Machchhar summoned his final strength to unlock the cockpit door from the floor. This vital action allowed passengers and off-duty pilots to enter, secure the aircraft, and safely divert the plane to Saudi Arabia, averting a major tragedy. Most of the 174 passengers on board were Israeli citizens, including 27 children.
Prominent billboards now stand at major Mumbai junctions, including the Warden Road and Napean Sea Road intersection, the Western Express Highway in Bandra East, the BKC-Sion connector, the Andheri-Jogeshwari flyover, and Tulsi Pipeline Road near Mahim. The displays bear the message: “Thank You, Captain Smit, For Saving Israeli Lives! Wishing You a Speedy Recovery.”
During a media briefing near the Western Express Highway display, Israeli Consul General Yaniv Revach praised Captain Machchhar’s incredible courage. He noted that the pilot’s actions prevented a complex diplomatic crisis and saved countless innocent lives. Mr. Revach also highlighted that Captain Machchhar’s heroism strengthens the deep bonds of friendship and shared cultural values between India and Israel.
Leaders from around the world, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and U.S. President Donald Trump, have hailed Captain Machchhar as a true hero. Officials stated that their immediate priority is the captain’s complete recovery in a Saudi hospital, after which they hope to welcome him to Israel to officially honor his remarkable valor.
-
-
-
-
