New Delhi, October 1, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke to the wife and parents of Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot of flydubai flight FZ1073 who was injured while helping avert a major in-flight crisis, and praised his courage, people familiar with the matter said.
According to sources, Modi assured Machchhar’s family that Indian missions were providing all possible assistance to the pilot, who is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
“PM Modi has spoken to the wife and parents of Captain Smit Machchhar. PM applauded the bravery of Captain Smit, who saved hundreds of lives,” the sources said.
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh had earlier said it was awaiting a detailed update on Machchhar’s condition and was in touch with his family. The mission also assured the family of all possible assistance in coordination with Saudi authorities.
Earlier on Thursday, Modi posted on X praising the pilot’s actions during the incident.
“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. His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy,” the Prime Minister said.
“India is proud of Captain Machchhar,” he added, while praying for the pilot’s speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health.
According to the account cited by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Machchhar was stabbed and seriously wounded during the incident but resisted the attacker, opened the cockpit door and enabled passengers and crew members to overpower the assailant.
Netanyahu also praised the Indian pilot’s actions, saying they helped prevent what could have become a major aviation disaster.
“My salute to the Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his extraordinary bravery,” Netanyahu said in a statement shared by the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office on X.
Netanyahu said Machchhar’s actions helped save the lives of 174 people, including Israeli citizens and other nationals, and wished him a speedy and full recovery.
The flight was subsequently diverted to Tabuk in northwest Saudi Arabia, where the injured pilot received medical treatment.
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