Our Bureau
New Delhi
Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot who helped avert a potential disaster aboard a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, on Friday told Prime Minister Narendra Modi that he continued to act despite being seriously injured during an alleged attack by his co-pilot. Machchhar is recovering in a hospital in Abu Dhabi.
During a video call with PM Modi, Machchhar described how he realised the aircraft was descending rapidly after he was attacked. Despite his injuries, he managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and other crew members to intervene. A crew travelling on the aircraft subsequently helped take control, and the plane was diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.
“I was fighting for my life, but I was determined not to let others die,” Machchhar told the Prime Minister, explaining that his experience as a pilot helped him understand that the aircraft was in danger. He said he summoned what strength remained to open the cockpit door.
Machchhar also told PM Modi that he recited the Hanuman Chalisa during the ordeal, saying the prayer gave him strength during moments of pain and fear.
PM Modi praised the pilot’s courage, presence of mind and composure, saying his actions helped save lives. The Prime Minister also said that the country was praying for Machchhar’s recovery and assured him of continued support.
The flight, carrying more than 170 people, experienced a rapid descent of nearly 14,000 feet before the situation was brought under control. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the alleged cockpit attack.
Machchhar, who has around 17 years of flying experience and has served as a captain for more than a decade, remains under medical care in the UAE.