Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday lauded Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his exceptional courage, stating that his actions averted a tragedy similar to the 9/11 terror attacks.
Speaking at an event marking the centenary of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), PM Modi praised the pilot’s remarkable patience, presence of mind, and resolve.
This follows a mid-air flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, where the co-pilot allegedly attacked Captain Machchhar and tried to crash the plane. Despite serious injuries, Machchhar fought back and unlocked the cockpit, allowing passengers and crew to intervene.
Hours prior to his public address, PM Modi spoke with Machchhar’s parents, Bhupendra Bhai and Geeta Behen, as well as his wife, Sonal Behen, extending his support while the captain undergoes medical treatment in Saudi Arabia.
Highlighting global appreciation for the feat, Modi noted that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also recognised the bravery, acknowledging that an Indian pilot helped prevent a catastrophic global disaster.
The violent struggle in the cockpit had caused the Boeing 737 MAX to plummet over 14,000 feet in seconds over northern Saudi Arabia before safely diverting to Tabuk. Leaders across the nation have joined in expressing immense pride in Captain Machchhar’s valour, urging citizens to pray for his swift recovery.
