Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar, who was seriously injured after allegedly being attacked by his co-pilot aboard a Flydubai flight, is recovering well, Indian officials said on Thursday as diplomats met him and his family.
Indian Ambassador to the UAE Deepak Mittal visited Machchhar at the hospital and said he was reassured to see the pilot in good health. The Indian Embassy in the UAE also said Machchhar was “in good health and recovering well” and that it remained in close contact with local authorities over his medical care.
After meeting the pilot and his family, Mittal said, “We are proud of Capt Smit for his bravery to save so many lives and avert a tragedy.” He also thanked the UAE government for the support and medical care being provided
to the Indian pilot.
In another statement, Mittal described Machchhar as a “brave son of India” and said, “Captain Smit has demonstrated great bravery and courage in an exemplary manner to save so many precious lives and avert a great tragedy.” He said the Indian government would extend full cooperation and support to the pilot and his family.
The Indian Embassy and Consulate General in Dubai also met Machchhar’s family and assured them of continued assistance. The mission said it was coordinating with UAE authorities to ensure his medical care and well-being.
India’s Ambassador To Israel Praises Captain Smit
India’s Ambassador to Israel, JP Singh, also praised Machchhar following the incident. In a message shared after the dramatic flight emergency, Singh said, “We all are proud of Captain Smit. We are safe today because of him.”
The remarks came as officials and passengers continued to recognise Machchhar’s role in helping prevent a potentially serious disaster aboard the Dubai to Tel Aviv flight.
What Happened On The Flydubai Flight?
Machchhar was the captain of Flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on Wednesday when the alleged cockpit attack took place. The aircraft was carrying 174 people and was eventually diverted to Tabuk in northwestern Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.
The Omani co-pilot allegedly attacked Machchhar inside the cockpit, leaving him seriously injured. Despite his injuries, the Indian captain managed to open the cockpit door. Passengers and crew members then entered the cockpit and helped overpower the attacker. Two off-duty Flydubai pilots travelling on the aircraft also assisted in bringing the aircraft under control and landing it safely in Tabuk.
Machchhar initially received treatment at a hospital in Tabuk. He was later shifted to Abu Dhabi for continued medical care and recovery, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.
The incident remains under investigation, with authorities examining the circumstances and motive behind the alleged cockpit attack. UAE authorities have also launched a probe into the incident.
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