Indian pilot Smit Machchhar thwarted a catastrophic aviation disaster on Wednesday, after foiling an alleged attempt to crash a flydubai aircraft. Israeli officials reported that the violent in-flight struggle began when the co-pilot stabbed Machchhar and sent the jet plunging nearly 14,000 feet in under 30 seconds.
Cockpit Stabbing and 14,000-Foot Plunge
Despite sustaining severe injuries and lying bleeding on the cockpit floor, Machchhar managed to activate the release, opening the cockpit door. Passengers and crew members then overpowered the co-pilot. This intervention allowed a second pair of flydubai pilots aboard the plane to land the aircraft in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Emergency Landing and Hospitalization in Tabuk
Flight FZ1073 had been operating from the United Arab Emirates to Israel. Following the emergency landing at Tabuk, Indian authorities in Saudi Arabia confirmed that Machchhar received medical attention at a local hospital.
The Indian embassy in Saudi Arabia reported that Machchhar remained in a stable condition. Diplomats coordinated with his family and local authorities to provide support. Saudi officials would interrogate the co-pilot regarding the incident, which Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu characterized as “a highly severe security incident”.
Global Leaders Praise Pilot’s Bravery
Leaders from both Israel and India swiftly praised the pilot’s quick thinking and bravery. Netanyahu released a video statement confirming that all passengers on board were out of harm’s way. In a social media post, Netanyahu stated that Machchhar saved the lives of 174 people, including Israeli citizens and other nationals.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also lauded the pilot on X. Modi described him as a hero who demonstrated immense courage and unwavering resolve in the face of grave danger.
Airline Suspends Israel Routes Amid Investigation
Flydubai issued an official statement emphasizing that the underlying reasons for the altercation remain unknown and cautioned against premature speculation. In response to the emergency, the airline suspended flights to and from Israel amid an investigation.
Machchhar, who hails from Mumbai, brings extensive commercial aviation experience to his role. He previously worked with India’s SpiceJet airline for more than eleven years before joining flydubai.
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