Mysuru, October 21, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The world-famous Mysuru Dasara festival has paid tribute to Indian commercial pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his reported courage in protecting 174 passengers during an alleged mid-air attack aboard a flydubai aircraft.
His actions were commemorated through an artistic cake displayed at a special exhibition organised as part of the Dasara festivities. The creation depicting the cockpit incident drew visitors’ attention, adding a contemporary story of courage and presence of mind to the festival’s traditional cultural and artistic displays.
The exhibition also featured elaborate cake creations showcasing the historical grandeur of Jagmohan Palace, the legacy of Maharani Kempananjammani and her contributions to women’s education, as well as a variety of birds and animals.
Together, the displays highlighted Karnataka’s cultural heritage, social contributions and stories of individual courage through creative cake art.
Captain Machchhar is reported to have saved 174 passengers aboard flydubai Flight FZ1073, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, after his co-pilot allegedly stabbed him during the flight.
According to the account of the incident, the attack caused the aircraft to descend sharply by nearly 14,000 feet in around 30 seconds. Despite sustaining serious injuries, Machchhar reportedly managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers, crew members and off-duty pilots aboard the aircraft to restrain the alleged attacker.
The aircraft was subsequently landed safely in Saudi Arabia by two other pilots who were on board.
The incident drew praise from several world leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump, according to the report.
Born in Mumbai, Machchhar has more than 13 years of commercial aviation experience and over 9,000 flight hours on Boeing 737 aircraft. He previously flew for SpiceJet.
Following treatment in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, Machchhar shared recovery updates indicating that he was healing and hoped to return to the cockpit.
The tribute at the Mysuru Dasara cake exhibition brought his story of reported bravery to a festival celebrated for its royal heritage, cultural performances and artistic showcases.
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