Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the wife and parents of Captain Smit Machchhar on Thursday and praised the pilot’s courage after he helped prevent a major incident aboard a Flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
Captain Smit Machchhar is currently undergoing treatment in the ICU of a hospital in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, after sustaining serious injuries during the mid-air incident. PM Modi praised his presence of mind and bravery while urging the nation to pray for his recovery.
PM Modi Speaks To Captain Smit Machchhar’s Family
Speaking at an event marking the centenary of the Union Public Service Commission, PM Modi revealed that he had spoken to Captain Smit Machchhar’s parents and wife.
Modi said the Indian pilot had demonstrated courage and presence of mind during the emergency and expressed pride in his actions. He also said that Indian missions were providing all possible assistance to the passengers and crew affected by the incident.
The Prime Minister urged people across the country to pray for Captain Smit’s speedy recovery.
What Happened Aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073?
Captain Smit Machchhar was the pilot of Flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv when the incident took place.
According to reports, the co-pilot allegedly attacked Machchhar inside the cockpit, leaving him seriously injured. The aircraft subsequently entered a steep descent, prompting passengers and crew members to intervene.
Despite his injuries, Machchhar reportedly managed to unlock the cockpit door. This allowed passengers and crew members to enter the cockpit and help overpower the alleged attacker.
The aircraft was eventually brought under control and made an emergency landing at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia.
Co-Pilot’s Identity Has Not Been Officially Released
The identity of the Omani co-pilot who allegedly attacked Captain Smit Machchhar has not been officially disclosed.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident, and details surrounding the alleged attack remain subject to the ongoing investigation.
The emergency had initially raised concerns about a possible hijacking after the aircraft transmitted emergency signals during the flight. The aircraft was later diverted to Saudi Arabia and landed safely.
Leaders Praise Captain Smit Machchhar’s Bravery
Captain Smit Machchhar has received praise from political leaders following the incident.
President Droupadi Murmu said the nation was proud of the Indian pilot and highlighted his courage and presence of mind during the emergency.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also praised Machchhar for his actions. Netanyahu said the Indian pilot continued to resist despite being seriously injured and helped open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to overpower the attacker.
The incident has brought widespread attention to Captain Smit Machchhar’s actions during the flight, while he continues to receive treatment in Saudi Arabia.
FAQs
Q. Who is Captain Smit Machchhar?
Captain Smit Machchhar is the Indian pilot who was operating Flydubai Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv during the mid-air incident.
Q. What happened to Captain Smit Machchhar?
Machchhar was seriously injured after the co-pilot allegedly attacked him inside the cockpit during the flight.
Q. Where is Captain Smit Machchhar currently?
Captain Smit Machchhar is undergoing treatment in the ICU of a hospital in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Q. What did PM Modi say about Captain Smit Machchhar?
PM Modi praised Machchhar’s courage and presence of mind and urged the nation to pray for his speedy recovery.
Q. Where did the Flydubai flight land?
Flydubai Flight FZ1073 made an emergency landing at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia.
