Abu Dhabi, October 3, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Dubai Crown Prince Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum on Saturday visited Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar, who was injured while preventing an alleged mid-air attack aboard a flydubai aircraft, and praised his courage, presence of mind and commitment to saving lives.
Hamdan, who is also the UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence and Chairman of Dubai’s Executive Council, expressed appreciation for the Indian pilot’s actions during the incident involving flydubai flight FZ1073.
In a post on X following his hospital visit, the Crown Prince described Machchhar as a pilot who had demonstrated the highest levels of courage, responsibility and concern for human life.
“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,” Hamdan wrote.
Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in the UAE said Captain Machchhar was responding well to treatment and remained under medical care. The mission confirmed that it was in contact with his family and local authorities to extend assistance and support his recovery.
“Indian braveheart Capt. Smit remains under excellent medical care & is recovering well. We are in touch with his family & local authorities, extending support for a speedy recovery. Our thanks to the UAE gov. for their care. We join well-wishers in praying for his good health,” the Indian Embassy said in a post on X.
Captain Machchhar sustained serious injuries on Wednesday while attempting to prevent an alleged mid-air attack aboard the flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Israel.
According to the account of the incident, another pilot allegedly stabbed Machchhar, causing the aircraft to begin plummeting. Despite his injuries, the Indian pilot fought back against the assailant and managed to open the cockpit door, prompting passengers to rush to the crew’s assistance.
The passengers entered the cockpit and overpowered the attacker, bringing the situation under control. Machchhar, who had sustained serious injuries, was stabilised before the aircraft made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke to Captain Machchhar through a video call on Friday and commended his courage, composure and presence of mind during the incident. The Prime Minister praised the pilot for his actions, which helped protect the lives of passengers and crew members aboard the aircraft.
The hospital visit by the Dubai Crown Prince and the Indian Embassy’s continued coordination with Machchhar’s family reflect the support being extended to the injured pilot as he recovers.
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