Dubai Crown Prince and UAE Deputy Prime Minister, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, on Saturday visited Indian flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar, who is recovering in hospital following a mid-air attack. Sheikh Hamdan praised Captain Machchhar for his "highest degrees of courage, responsibility, and care for human life" during the incident.
Heroic Actions During In-Flight Incident
Captain Smit Machchhar sustained injuries during an incident aboard flydubai flight FZ1073 on September 30. The aircraft was en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv when the co-pilot attacked Machchhar inside the cockpit, attempting to seize control of the aircraft.
Despite his injuries, Captain Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, enabling crew members and passengers to intervene and restrain the assailant. The aircraft was subsequently diverted and landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, averting a potentially catastrophic outcome.
Official Recognition and Investigation
The UAE authorities have characterized the incident as an attempted terrorist act and have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack. The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority has also commended Captain Machchhar, the flight crew, and passengers for their swift actions in bringing the dangerous situation under control.
Sheikh Hamdan shared photographs from his meeting with Machchhar on X, conveying his appreciation on behalf of himself and the UAE leadership. He stated, "From us, and from the leadership of the nation, he has our full appreciation and praise. We are proud that he is part of our team… part of the story of our nation… and part of what the UAE stands for… a nation of compassion… a nation of peace… and a nation of life."
Captain Machchhar has since returned safely to the UAE and is receiving medical treatment. His actions have garnered widespread international recognition, with leaders from India and other nations also praising his conduct during the emergency.