PM Modi has praised Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his courage during the Flydubai cockpit attack that forced Flight FZ1073 to land in Saudi Arabia.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his courage during a violent cockpit incident aboard a Flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
The prime minister described Machchhar as a “hero” and said his bravery helped save hundreds of lives and prevent a major tragedy.
“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,” Modi wrote on X.
The prime minister said India was proud of the captain and wished him a speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health.
What Happened on Flydubai Flight FZ1073?
The incident occurred aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was carrying 174 people from Dubai in the United Arab Emirates to Tel Aviv, Israel.
According to Israeli officials and passenger accounts, the Omani co-pilot allegedly attacked and stabbed Captain Machchhar during the flight. The aircraft then descended sharply as a struggle unfolded inside the cockpit.
Despite being seriously injured, Machchhar reportedly activated the cockpit-door release, allowing passengers and crew members to enter. They overpowered and restrained the co-pilot before members of the operating and relief crew stabilised the aircraft.
The Boeing 737 was diverted to Tabuk in northwestern Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. All passengers were subsequently assisted, while the alleged attacker was taken into Saudi custody.
The co-pilot’s motive has not been conclusively established. Flydubai confirmed that an altercation occurred aboard the aircraft but urged against premature speculation while authorities investigate.
Captain Machchhar Stable in Saudi Hospital
Captain Machchhar was admitted to a hospital in Tabuk and was reported to be in stable condition.
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh said it was monitoring his treatment, maintaining contact with his family and coordinating with Saudi authorities. A complete medical update was awaited.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also praised Machchhar, the passengers and crew members who intervened during the emergency.
Netanyahu said the Indian captain displayed extraordinary bravery despite suffering serious injuries.
Who Is Captain Smit Machchhar?
Captain Smit Machchhar is an experienced Indian commercial pilot from Mumbai. He reportedly has more than 13 years of experience operating Boeing 737 aircraft and has logged approximately 9,750 flying hours.
Machchhar began his commercial aviation career with SpiceJet in 2011. During his 11 years with the airline, he worked as a senior commander and line-training captain.
He joined Flydubai as a direct-entry captain in June 2022 and is based in Dubai. His professional experience includes training and assessing pilots, flight-safety compliance and aircraft operations.
Investigation Into Cockpit Attack Continues
Saudi authorities are questioning the detained co-pilot, while aviation and security agencies are examining how the alleged attacker may have brought a weapon into the cockpit.
Investigators are also reviewing cockpit procedures, crew-security checks, flight data and communications from the aircraft.
Israel has announced plans to strengthen security vetting for pilots operating flights into the country. Aviation experts noted that pilots already undergo background, medical, psychological and airport-security checks, but implementation can vary between airlines and jurisdictions.
Until investigators publish their findings, reports that the incident was terrorism or a deliberate hijacking attempt remain allegations based primarily on statements from Israeli officials and passengers.
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