FlyDubai captain Smit Machchhar has described the terrifying sequence of events during which he was attacked by his co-pilot aboard a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv on Wednesday, telling Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi that he felt compelled to protect the passengers despite his own serious injuries.
The account was shared during a video call released Friday by the prime minister’s office, in which Machchhar conversed with Modi in Hindi. The captain, who has 17 years of flying experience and 11 years as a captain, stated that while lying on the cockpit floor during the assault, he realized the aircraft was descending rapidly.
“When I was lying on the floor, I could feel that the aircraft was plunging and I said to myself while I was getting beaten, ‘This is the last push, Smit, do it, the door is right there,'” Machchhar recalled. He managed to open the cockpit door, allowing crew members and passengers to enter and intervene. “Somehow, I opened the door, and everyone came in and everyone else had an equal role in the rescue,” he said. “I was trying to save myself, but I also knew that I can’t let anyone die.”
The incident caused the plane to drop thousands of feet before the emergency landing was made at Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Machchhar noted that his extensive training allowed him to assess the situation even while incapacitated. “Even if I shut my eyes, I can tell what is happening inside a plane,” he explained.
During the call, Modi inquired about the captain’s condition. When Machchhar replied that he was fine, the prime minister responded, “The entire country is praying for you.” Modi praised Machchhar’s quick thinking and courage, stating that the captain’s split-second decision saved numerous lives. “Today, the whole country can say this with pride: We Indians are not killers, we are life savers,” Modi said.
The prime minister also commended Machchhar for prioritizing the safety of others over his own well-being. “And the biggest thing is you enhanced the honor of 1.4 billion Indians and that is why I am feeling proud from my heart,” Modi added.
Machchhar expressed that he considered Modi his “biggest idol” and felt honored by the call. The captain is currently recovering after receiving initial treatment in Tabuk and being transferred to Abu Dhabi for ongoing medical care. Modi confirmed that prayers for Machchhar’s recovery have been offered at temples and holy sites across India, expressing confidence that the pilot would regain his health soon.
Proud to see such heroism recognized globally. Captain Machchhar definitely saved many lives through his quick thinking.
How did the aircraft stabilize after plunging so rapidly? I am curious about the technical details of that emergency landing.
I cannot believe someone would do this. The co-pilot’s motive must be truly disturbing to read about.
Incredible bravery under extreme pressure. That training kicking in while injured shows the value of rigorous preparation.