Mumbai, October 2, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Veteran lyricist and writer Javed Akhtar has praised Indian flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar for his actions during an alleged mid-air attack aboard a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight, saying the pilot deserves recognition for his courage.
Taking to Instagram, Akhtar wrote, “Hats off to Smit Machchhar!! Undoubtedly he deserves an award like Maha Vir Chakra.”
The Maha Vir Chakra is India’s second-highest military gallantry award and is awarded for acts of exceptional bravery in the presence of the enemy.
Machchhar was piloting flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv when his co-pilot allegedly attacked him inside the cockpit. Despite suffering serious injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to intervene and restrain the attacker. The aircraft subsequently made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, with all 174 people on board safe.
The pilot’s actions have drawn praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and others. Modi spoke to Machchhar over a video call on Friday, enquired about his health and praised his courage, presence of mind and composure during the crisis.
During the conversation, Machchhar became emotional and told Modi that he was his “biggest idol”. He also recounted how he kept reciting the Hanuman Chalisa during the ordeal.
Akhtar’s remarks come amid widespread public attention on Machchhar’s actions following the incident. The captain is undergoing medical treatment after sustaining serious injuries in the attack.
FOLLOW NOW
