New Delhi: Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu on Thursday said Flydubai flight captain Smit Machchhar’s extraordinary courage and presence of mind in the cockpit helped save every life on board.
Machchhar, the captain of flight FZ1073, thwarted his co-pilot’s alleged attempt to crash the aircraft on Wednesday.
He was stabbed and sustained injuries.
In a post on X, Minister Naidu stated, “Capt. Smit Machchhar has made every Indian proud! His extraordinary courage and presence of mind in the cockpit helped save every life on board. From our skies to skies across the world, Indian pilots have earned respect for their skill, discipline and uncompromising commitment to safety. Salute to Capt. Smit Machchhar for upholding the Indian spirit of service before self. Wishing him a speedy recovery.”
Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol also commended Captain Machchhar’s actions, describing him as a “true hero” for his presence of mind and bravery during the cockpit attack. Mohol highlighted that despite serious injuries, the captain unlocked the cockpit door, enabling passengers and crew to intervene and secure the situation.
Mohol said, “His brave act and the collective efforts of the passengers and crew helped avert a major tragedy, save 174 lives, and make every Indian really proud! Wishing Captain Smit Machchhar a speedy and complete recovery. Salutations again to the brave Captain Smit!”
The attack was allegedly carried out by the co-pilot, who attempted to crash the aircraft. The incident involved a sudden descent before control was restored.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also praised Machchhar’s “extraordinary courage and remarkable presence of mind,” stating that it helped save hundreds of lives and prevent a catastrophe.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to Captain Machchhar as a “HERO” in a post on X, saying, “In the face of the gravest danger and despite being seriously injured, he showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others. His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy.”
Machchhar is an experienced commercial pilot with over 13 years in aviation. Prior to joining flydubai, he worked for SpiceJet as a Line Training Captain. He has logged approximately 9,750 flying hours, mainly on Boeing 737 aircraft.
Flydubai has temporarily suspended flights to and from Israel pending investigation into the incident.
