PM Narendra Modi, Benjamin Netanyahu Hail Indian Pilot Captain Smit Machchhar as Hero for Saving 174 Lives

Dated 1st October 2026

TDF News Desk

New Delhi | Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar, who was seriously injured while reportedly foiling an alleged attempt by his co-pilot to crash a Flydubai flight, is in stable condition and undergoing treatment at a hospital in Saudi Arabia, officials said today.

Captain Machchhar was the pilot of Flydubai flight FZ1073, travelling from Dubai to Israel’s Tel Aviv yesterday, when he was reportedly stabbed by his co-pilot, who was an Omani national. The co-pilot allegedly wanted to crash the aircraft.

Despite being seriously injured, Captain Machchhar managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to intervene. The aircraft was subsequently diverted and made a safe emergency landing at Tabuk in Saudi Arabia. The flight was carrying 174 people. Captain Machchhar is currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Saudi Arabia.

VIDEO |Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauds Captain Smit Machchhar’s courage while addressing UPSC centenary celebrations | Source : @narendramodi on X.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Captain Machchhar for his courage and determination to protect the lives of others despite being seriously injured. He said the pilot’s bravery helped save hundreds of lives and avert a major tragedy.

In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi said, “Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO.” He said that in the face of grave danger, Captain Machchhar showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others. He also said that India is proud of him and prayed for his speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health.

Addressing the centenary celebrations of the UPSC, Prime Minister Modi again praised Captain Machchhar and said that he had shown the world the highest form of courage. The Prime Minister said that without fearing for his own life, Captain Machchhar fought valiantly and prevented what he described as another 9/11-like attack.

Prime Minister Modi said that 140 crore Indians salute Captain Smit Machchhar and are praying for his well-being.

Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu in his post on X (@netanyahu) said, “My salute to the Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his extraordinary bravery.  Despite being stabbed and seriously injured, he fought back, resisted, opened the cockpit door, and enabled passengers and crew to overpower the attacker — preventing a catastrophic mid-air disaster.  He saved the lives of 174 people, including Israeli citizens and other nationals.  I wish Captain Machchhar a speedy and full recovery.  He is a true hero.”