Indian Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar has revealed new details of the terrifying cockpit attack that unfolded aboard Flight FZ1073 while speaking with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Machchhar said the flight was proceeding normally when his co-pilot asked to pray. A few minutes later, he was suddenly struck from behind. The repeated blows left his vision severely blurred, while the aircraft began descending sharply. Despite his injuries, Machchhar realized that he had one final chance to prevent a disaster.
The captain explained that the cockpit door could be opened from inside with a twist mechanism, while crew members outside were unable to gain access because the attacker prevented the entry code from being used. Summoning his remaining strength, Machchhar reached the door and opened it, allowing people outside to intervene and help regain control of the aircraft.
The plane was eventually diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it made an emergency landing. Machchhar is recovering in Abu Dhabi. Netanyahu praised his courage and called him a hero of Israel, India and the world, while inviting him and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to participate in Israel’s Independence Day celebrations. The investigation into the attack remains ongoing.
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