Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have lauded Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian commercial pilot with flydubai, for his exceptional courage in averting a catastrophic mid-air disaster aboard flight FZ1073.
Despite sustaining severe injuries during a violent altercation inside the cockpit, Captain Machchhar successfully opened the cockpit door, enabling crew and passengers to assist in controlling the situation before safely diverting the Boeing 737 to Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia. His decisive action saved the lives of 174 passengers and crew members.
PM Modi: “India is Proud of Captain Machchhar”
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the pilot’s unyielding resolve in the face of grave danger.
”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,” PM Modi posted, wishing him a swift and full recovery.
PM Netanyahu: “A True Hero Who Averted Tragedy”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also issued a formal statement saluting Captain Machchhar’s extraordinary composure and bravery.
Netanyahu noted that despite being stabbed and seriously wounded during the altercation, Machchhar fought back, resisted the assailant, and unlocked the cockpit door, allowing cabin crew and passengers to overpower the attacker.
”He saved the lives of 174 people, including Israeli citizens and other nationals. My salute to the Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his extraordinary bravery. He is a true hero,” Netanyahu stated.
Emergency Diverted to Saudi Arabia
The incident unfolded mid-flight on flydubai flight FZ1073, operating en route to Tel Aviv. Following the cockpit disturbance, the aircraft sent emergency signals and safely executed a diversion to Tabuk Airport in northern Saudi Arabia.
Captain Machchhar was immediately transferred to a medical facility in Tabuk, where he underwent surgery and is reported to be in stable condition. Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
