New Delhi, October 1, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday praised Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot of Flydubai flight FZ1073, for showing “immense courage” and “unwavering resolve” while helping avert a major in-flight crisis despite being seriously injured.
The aircraft was diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia following the incident, during which the pilot was allegedly attacked but continued to act to protect passengers and crew.
Taking to X, Modi described Captain Machchhar as a “HERO” and credited his actions with helping save hundreds of lives.
“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.
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“India is proud of Captain Machchhar,” Modi added.
The Prime Minister also prayed for the pilot’s “speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health”.
Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had also praised Machchhar for what he described as “extraordinary bravery” in preventing a potential mid-air catastrophe.
In a statement posted by the Office of the Israeli Prime Minister on X, Netanyahu said Machchhar displayed exceptional courage despite sustaining serious injuries during the incident.
“My salute to the Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his extraordinary bravery,” Netanyahu said.
According to Netanyahu, Machchhar was stabbed and seriously wounded but fought back, resisted the attacker and opened the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to overpower the alleged assailant.
Netanyahu said the pilot’s actions prevented what could have become a major aviation disaster.
“He saved the lives of 174 people, including Israeli citizens and other nationals,” he said.
The Israeli Prime Minister also wished Machchhar a “speedy and full recovery” and described him as “a true hero”.
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