Modi hails Indian pilot as ‘Hero’ after cockpit attack averts major aviation tragedy

NEW DELHI, Oct 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday hailed Indian commercial pilot Captain Smit Machchhar as a “HERO” for his courage and presence of mind in confronting a violent cockpit attack aboard a flydubai flight, saying his actions helped save hundreds of lives and avert a major tragedy.

In a post on X, Modi said Machchhar displayed “immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others” despite being seriously injured and facing what he described as “the gravest danger.”

“His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy,” the Prime Minister said, adding, “India is proud of Captain Machchhar.”

He also wished the pilot a speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health.

Machchhar was the captain of flydubai Flight FZ1073, a Boeing 737 MAX 8 operating from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30, when a violent confrontation reportedly broke out inside the cockpit.

The aircraft, carrying around 174 passengers and crew, was forced to make an emergency diversion to Tabuk in north-western Saudi Arabia following the incident.

According to reports, the co-pilot allegedly attacked Machchhar with a knife and attempted to take control of the aircraft. During the confrontation, the aircraft reportedly lost around 14,300 feet in approximately 37 seconds, according to flight-tracking data.

An emergency was subsequently declared and the aircraft was diverted to Tabuk, where it landed safely.

Despite sustaining serious injuries, Machchhar is reported to have fought back during the confrontation and helped create an opportunity for the cockpit door to be opened, allowing other crew members and passengers to intervene and subdue the attacker.

Following the emergency landing, Machchhar was taken to a hospital in Tabuk for treatment. The Indian Embassy in Riyadh said he was receiving medical care and was in stable condition. Subsequent reports said the pilot underwent surgery.

Machchhar has served as a captain with flydubai since June 2022. Before joining the Dubai-based carrier, he spent 11 years with Indian airline SpiceJet, where he served as a senior commander and line training captain. His professional profile lists more than 9,750 hours of flying experience on Boeing 737 aircraft.

The incident has attracted international attention, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also praising Machchhar and others involved in preventing the aircraft from being brought down.

The passengers were later flown onward to Tel Aviv on a rescue flight after the aircraft landed safely in Saudi Arabia.

Modi’s tribute came as aviation authorities and investigators continued to examine the circumstances surrounding the cockpit confrontation. His message highlighted Machchhar’s reported actions during the emergency and his role in helping protect the passengers and crew aboard the flight.