Flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar stabbed by co-pilot on Dubai-Tel Aviv flight
- An Indian pilot named Smit Machchhar was stabbed by his co-pilot aboard a Flydubai flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, dn.se reported.
- In a video call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Machchhar described lying injured on the cockpit floor and summoning the strength to give a final push to...
- Israeli authorities are investigating the incident as a suspected terrorist attack aimed at crashing the plane.
An Indian pilot named Smit Machchhar was stabbed by his co-pilot aboard a Flydubai flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, dn.se reported. Despite severe injuries to his head and hand on the flight deck, Machchhar fought to open the cockpit door from the inside so passengers could intervene and prevent a crash.
Pilot Survives Cockpit Stabbing on Dubai-Tel Aviv Route
In a video call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Machchhar described lying injured on the cockpit floor and summoning the strength to give a final push to the door. Two reserve pilots who were on board then stepped in to land the aircraft safely at Tabuk Airport in northwestern Saudi Arabia at 06:58 local time on Wednesday.
International Investigation Into Suspected Terrorist Motive
Israeli authorities are investigating the incident as a suspected terrorist attack aimed at crashing the plane. The United Arab Emirates has also launched a formal inquiry through its state news agency to determine whether the event was linked to terrorist activity. Netanyahu confirmed that Saudi authorities arrested and interrogated the co-pilot following the emergency landing in Tabuk.
Global Praise and Recovery From Injuries
Following the emergency landing, Machchhar was transported to a hospital in Tabuk, where Aftonbladet reported he is currently out of danger and recovering from his injuries. Prime Minister Netanyahu praised Machchhar as a true hero for refusing to give up, while Prime Minister Modi commended the pilot’s 17 years of experience, courage, patience, and quick decision-making during the crisis. Social media platforms in India have flooded with tributes, and artists have begun painting portraits to honor the pilot’s actions. Modi noted during their video conversation that the entire nation of India stands proud of how he managed the emergency.