PM Modi Speaks To Family Of Injured Flydubai Pilot Smit Machchhar After Mid-Air Attack

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the wife and parents of Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot who was seriously injured during an attack inside the cockpit of a flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, government sources said on Thursday.

Machchhar was injured after his co-pilot allegedly attacked him during the flight on September 30. The aircraft subsequently made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where the captain was taken to hospital.

According to government sources, Modi spoke with Machchhar’s family while the pilot remained under treatment and praised his actions during the in-flight emergency.

Modi Praises Pilot’s Courage

During the conversation, Modi commended Machchhar for his conduct during the crisis and expressed support for his family.

The Prime Minister also said that Indian missions in the region were coordinating with the family and providing all possible assistance.

Earlier, Modi had publicly praised Machchhar in a post on X, describing him as a “HERO” and saying his actions helped protect the lives of passengers despite his serious injuries.

“India is proud of Captain Machchhar,” Modi said, while wishing the pilot a speedy recovery. 

Pilot Injured During Cockpit Attack

Machchhar was the captain of flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was carrying 174 people, according to reports.

The aircraft was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv when the co-pilot allegedly attacked Machchhar inside the cockpit. The plane then went into a sharp descent, triggering an emergency situation.

According to Israeli authorities and reports from passengers, Machchhar was seriously injured but managed to open the cockpit door. Passengers and crew members then entered the cockpit and helped restrain the attacker.

The aircraft was eventually stabilised and diverted to Tabuk, where it landed safely. 

Machchhar Has More Than 9,700 Flying Hours

Machchhar is an experienced commercial pilot with nearly 9,750 hours of flying experience, according to multiple reports.

He previously worked with SpiceJet for more than a decade, where he served as a captain and was involved in training pilots. He later joined flydubai and has been flying Boeing 737 aircraft.

Reports said Machchhar trained in New Zealand before beginning his professional aviation career. 

Pilot Recovering In Saudi Arabia

Machchhar is receiving medical treatment in Tabuk, where the aircraft made its emergency landing.

The Indian Embassy in Riyadh said the injured pilot was in stable condition and that Indian officials were coordinating with Saudi authorities and his family. 

The identity of the co-pilot has been reported by several outlets as an Omani national, and Saudi authorities have taken him into custody. The circumstances surrounding the attack and its motive remain under investigation. 

Flydubai Suspends Israel Flights

Following the incident, flydubai suspended its flights to and from Israel while authorities investigate the circumstances of the attack.

The incident has drawn international attention after the aircraft carrying 174 people was diverted to Saudi Arabia following the cockpit confrontation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also praised Machchhar’s actions, while authorities continue to investigate the circumstances and possible motive behind the attack.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Susmita Modak

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Always love to raise the unraised matter. In a world of worries, I am always ready to come over my comfort zone and taking the step ahead of spreading awareness.

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