Flydubai Emergency: Smit Machchhar Hailed As Hero, Fighter Jets Scrambled In Israel

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu and other leaders on Thursday hailed Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his courage in foiling an alleged attempt by his co-pilot to crash a Flydubai flight, while Israel said fighter jets had been scrambled after the aircraft sent emergency signals but did not have to intervene.

Flight FZ1073, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, carrying 174 passengers, including 27 children, transmitted emergency alerts on Wednesday and made a sharp descent of more than 17,000 feet from 34,000 feet before diverting to Prince Sultan Bin Abdel Aziz Airport in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

Israeli envoy to India Reuven Azar said Machchhar, despite being attacked and seriously injured, managed to open the cockpit door and call for assistance. Three Israeli passengers then helped subdue the alleged attacker, while additional crew members and pilots took control of the aircraft and landed it safely.

An Israeli doctor aboard the flight also provided initial medical assistance to Machchhar, Azar said, adding that Saudi authorities took charge of his treatment after landing.

“Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO,” Modi said on X, praising his “immense courage” and resolve to protect others. He said the pilot’s valour saved hundreds of lives and averted a great tragedy. Modi later said Machchhar had helped thwart a 9/11-like attack and spoke to his wife and parents to applaud his bravery.

President Murmu said Machchhar’s “heroic courage and incredible presence of mind” deeply touched the nation, while Vice President C P Radhakrishnan said India was proud of the “extraordinary hero”. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also praised Machchhar, the crew and passengers for their courage and presence of mind.

Azar said Israel’s civil aviation authorities, air force and political leadership were alerted immediately because of the potential threat. Fighter jets were called into the air, but fortunately did not have to take action after the aircraft was brought under control.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had earlier also described Machchhar as a “true hero”, saying the pilot’s actions helped prevent a catastrophic mid-air disaster.