General News
Modi Speaks With Flydubai Pilot Who Helped Avert Mid-Air Disaster
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken with Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian Flydubai pilot who was seriously injured after an alleged attack by his co-pilot during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
Machchhar, speaking from his hospital bed during a video call with Modi on Friday, recounted how he forced himself to open the cockpit door despite his injuries after realising that the aircraft was rapidly losing altitude.
“I was trying to save my own life, but I knew I could not let all those people die,” the pilot told Modi.
The incident occurred on Wednesday aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073. The Boeing 737, carrying 174 passengers, was reportedly travelling to Tel Aviv when the co-pilot allegedly attacked Machchhar, leaving him seriously injured and triggering a struggle for control of the aircraft. The plane subsequently plunged about 17,000 feet before the situation was brought under control.
Machchhar said his 17 years of aviation experience helped him recognise that the aircraft was descending while he was lying injured on the cockpit floor. He described opening the cockpit door as his “last push”, allowing passengers and other crew members to enter and help subdue the attacker.
Passengers eventually helped overpower the co-pilot, while two off-duty pilots travelling on the aircraft assisted with controlling the plane. The aircraft was diverted and made an emergency landing at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia. Machchhar was initially treated in Saudi Arabia before being transferred to Abu Dhabi, where he is recovering.
During the conversation, Modi commended Machchhar’s courage, patience and quick decision-making, saying his actions helped save lives and avert a major tragedy. The Indian Prime Minister also assured him of the support and prayers of people across India.
The circumstances surrounding the confrontation remain under investigation. Authorities are examining what triggered the alleged attack and whether it had any wider motive.