CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday spoke to Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot of a Flydubai flight who was injured during an attack by his co-pilot. Modi praised Machchhar’s courage during the incident and wished him a speedy recovery.
During the conversation, Machchhar reportedly shared details of the incident with the Prime Minister and spoke about what gave him the courage to respond during the emergency. Modi applauded his actions and conveyed his wishes for his recovery.
Machchhar was commanding Flydubai Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30 when his Omani co-pilot allegedly attacked him inside the cockpit. Despite sustaining injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to intervene and restrain the attacker.
The aircraft, carrying passengers on the Dubai–Tel Aviv route, was subsequently diverted and made an emergency landing at Tabuk in northwestern Saudi Arabia. Machchhar initially received treatment in Saudi Arabia before being shifted to the UAE for further medical care. Government officials said he was recovering well.
The incident is being investigated by authorities in the countries connected with the flight. The circumstances surrounding the co-pilot’s actions and the motive behind the attack remain under investigation.
The Prime Minister had earlier praised Machchhar publicly and said his courage helped avert a major tragedy. Indian officials have also remained in contact with his family and are coordinating assistance during his recovery.
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