Modi Speaks With Injured Flydubai Pilot After Mid Air Attack Aboard Tel Aviv Bound Flight

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken with Captain Smit Machchhar, the Flydubai pilot who was seriously injured during an alleged attack by his co pilot aboard a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv.

Machchhar, speaking with Modi from his hospital bed in Abu Dhabi on Friday, recounted how he managed to open the cockpit door despite suffering multiple injuries as the aircraft went into a steep descent. He said his 17 years of flying experience helped him realise that the aircraft was losing altitude while he was lying injured on the cockpit floor.

“I was trying to save my own life, but I knew I could not let all those people die,” Machchhar told Modi, according to the account of the conversation released by the Indian Prime Minister’s office.

The Boeing 737, operated by Flydubai, was carrying 174 people when the confrontation occurred on Wednesday. The co pilot allegedly attacked Machchhar, after which the aircraft reportedly plunged thousands of feet before passengers and other crew members intervened.

The cockpit door was eventually opened, allowing passengers to overpower the attacker, while reserve pilots took control of the aircraft. The plane later made an emergency landing at Tabuk in Saudi Arabia.

Machchhar told Modi that he was still being assaulted when he made what he described as his “last push” to open the cockpit door. He also said he drew spiritual strength from reciting the Hanuman Chalisa during the ordeal.

Modi praised the captain for his courage and quick decision making, saying his actions helped save lives.

The Indian Prime Minister also said Machchhar’s actions had brought pride to the country and assured him of continued support as he recovers.