Indian FlyDubai Captain Smit Machchhar, who sustained injuries while thwarting an alleged cockpit attack on a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, is now reported to be stable and out of danger. This update comes from Maharashtra BJP MLA Parag Shah, who has been in contact with the pilot's family and airline officials.
Shah, who represents the Ghatkopar East constituency where Machchhar's family resides, shared that he has been receiving hourly updates on the captain's condition from officials at a Saudi hospital. He also revealed a personal connection, stating that Machchhar was his junior at the school where Shah now serves as chairman.
Details of the Cockpit Incident
The incident unfolded on Wednesday aboard FlyDubai flight FZ1073. According to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, an altercation broke out in the cockpit, during which the co-pilot allegedly attempted to crash the aircraft and stabbed Captain Machchhar. Despite his injuries, Captain Machchhar reportedly managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to intervene.
Two standby pilots, who were travelling as passengers, then assisted in safely landing the Boeing 737 at Tabuk airport in northwestern Saudi Arabia. All 174 individuals on board were reported safe. Both pilots were taken to the hospital, and Saudi authorities have taken the suspected attacker into custody as investigations commence.
Official Responses and Support
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reportedly spoken with Captain Machchhar's wife and parents, assuring them of full support and hailing the pilot as a source of national pride. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also lauded Machchhar as a “true hero” for his actions in saving hundreds of lives.
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh confirmed that Captain Machchhar is admitted to a hospital in Tabuk, is in stable condition, and is receiving all necessary medical attention. Machchhar's parents have travelled to the Gulf to be with their son.