'Captain Smit Machchhar is a hero': PM Modi hails former pilot SpiceJet pilot aboard Flydubai flight

Prime Minister Narendra Modi appreciated the former SpiceJet pilot Smit Machchhar who was the captain of the Flydubai Boeing 737 MAX 8 that made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday after a confrontation in the cockpit.

"Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO. 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," PM Modi said in a post on X.

His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy, he added.


Also read: Former SpiceJet pilot at centre of Flydubai mid-air incident

The prime minister further added that the country is proud of Captain Machchhar and is praying for his speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health.

Dubai to Tel Aviv flight FZ1073 was flying with around 174 passengers when an incident involving the two pilots unfolded more than two hours into the flight. The aircraft then transmitted emergency signals and made a rapid descent before diverting to Tabuk in northwestern Saudi Arabia.

'Captain Smit Machchhar prevented 9/11 like tragedy'

PM Modi recalled the incident at the centenary celebrations of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi and praised Machchhar for displaying courage despite being seriously injured.

“The incident that occurred yesterday, Captain Smit of India demonstrated remarkable patience, presence of mind, and courage; indeed, as the Prime Minister of Israel stated today, an Indian prevented a 9/11-style tragedy. For every citizen of our country, Sumeet's valor fills us with immense pride,” he said.

PM Modi spoke to Smit Machchhar’s family and enquired about his health.

“Today, I had a conversation with his father Bhupendrabhai, his mother Gitaben, and his wife Sonalben. His medical treatment is currently ongoing, and today the entire world feels proud of him,” he said at the event.

He also appealed to citizens to pray for the pilot’s recovery.

“I appeal to all citizens of the country that we all pray for Sumeet's long life and good health and let us honor Brother Sumeet, who has enhanced the pride and honor of India,” the PM said.

Also read: Captain Smit Machchhar is ‘true hero’: Netanyahu hails pilot after flydubai mid-air attack

Smit Machchhar health update

Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia is following the health condition of Smit Machchhar, "the brave Indian pilot of Flydubai flight that was diverted to Tabuk today."

The Embassy informed that the pilot has admitted in a hospital in Tabuk city in northwest Saudi Arabia and receiving necessary medical attention.

"A full update on his health is awaited but he is reported to be in stable condition. We hope that he recovers from his injuries at the earliest. We are in touch with his family and assure them that we will continue to follow up on his health with Saudi authorities and extend all possible assistance for his wellbeing," it said in a statement.

Also read: "Terrorist or whack job": Trump on flydubai co-pilot after mid-air attack; calls Indian Captain Smit Machchhar a hero

Netanyahu hails pilot after stabbing issue

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also hailed pilot Smit Machchhar for saving passengers after he was stabbed by his colleague in an alleged attempt to crash a flydubai plane.

Passengers on the flight reached Israel safely after customers and crew foiled the co-pilot's attempt to crash the aircraft, Israeli officials said, as quoted by Reuters. The pilot feud began when the co-pilot stabbed the pilot and sent the jet plunging nearly 14,000 feet (4,267 m) in less than 30 seconds.

Machchhar was covered with blood on the floor and somehow managed to click the release to open the cockpit door, Netanyahu's spokesperson told Reuters. The move allowed passengers and crew to overpower the co-pilot and enable a second pair of flydubai pilots who were on board to land the jet in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

"He saved the lives of 174 people, including Israeli citizens and other nationals," Netanyahu said in a post on X. "All passengers are out of harm's way," Netanyahu had earlier said in a video statement released by his office.