New Delhi, October 1, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot of Flydubai flight FZ1073 who was injured while helping avert a major in-flight crisis, is stable and receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Tabuk, the Indian mission in Saudi Arabia said on Wednesday.
The Embassy of India in Riyadh said the embassy and the Consulate General of India in Jeddah were closely monitoring Machchhar’s medical condition following the incident that led to the aircraft being diverted to Tabuk in northwestern Saudi Arabia.
In a post on X, the embassy said the pilot was admitted to a hospital in Tabuk and was receiving necessary medical treatment. While a detailed medical update was awaited, initial reports indicated that his condition was stable.
“We hope that he recovers from his injuries at the earliest,” the embassy said.
The Indian mission also said it was in contact with Machchhar’s family and would continue coordinating with Saudi authorities to provide all possible assistance.
“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 well-being,” it said.
The update came hours after senior Israeli leaders praised Machchhar for his actions during the emergency aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the Indian pilot as a “true hero” and praised his “extraordinary bravery”.
According to a statement issued through the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office on X, Machchhar was stabbed and seriously injured during the incident but resisted the attacker and continued working to protect those on board.
Netanyahu said the pilot opened the cockpit door, enabling passengers and crew members to overpower the alleged assailant and prevent what he described as a potentially major mid-air disaster.
“He saved the lives of 174 people, including Israeli citizens and other nationals,” Netanyahu said, while wishing Machchhar a speedy and full recovery.
Israeli diplomat Reuven Azar also expressed concern for the pilot and described him as an experienced and gifted aviator.
Referring to the flight, Azar said Machchhar’s courage, along with that of Israeli and Emirati passengers and crew members, helped save those aboard the aircraft.
“His courage and the courage of other Israeli and Emirati passengers and crew members saved the lives of 180 souls,” Azar said.
He also called for a united stand against terrorism.
The Indian mission’s update on Machchhar’s condition comes as his actions during the emergency continue to draw international attention, while authorities remain focused on his treatment and recovery.
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