The aircraft reportedly plunged nearly 14,000 feet in about 30 seconds. Despite sustaining serious injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday praised captian Smit Machchhar, Indian pilot of Flydubai for his courage and saving passengers onboard. The captain helped to prevent the plane from being crashed after his co-pilot allegedly stabbed him during a physical alteration in the cockpit.
Captian Smit Machchhar is an commercial pilot with more than 13 years of flying experience on Boeing 737 fleet. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an X post wrote, ‘ Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO. In the face of the gravest danger and despite being seriously injured, he showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others. His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy. India is proud of Captain Machchhar.’ Modi further prayed for his speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health.
The incident took place on Wednesday aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The plane was carrying 74 passengers including 24 children. According to Israeli officials, an altercation broke out in the cockpit after the co-pilot allegedly stabbed Machchhar and attempted to take control of the aircraft.
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During the confrontation, the aircraft reportedly plunged nearly 14,000 feet in about 30 seconds. Despite sustaining serious injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to intervene and overpower the co-pilot. Two additional Flydubai pilots who were travelling on the aircraft subsequently took control and landed the plane safely at Tabuk in northwestern Saudi Arabia.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also praised Machchhar for his actions, describing him as a hero who helped prevent a potential aviation disaster. ‘My salute to the Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his extraordinary bravery,’ Netanyahu said.
