Indian pilot Smit Machchhar has been praised for his courage after a Flydubai flight carrying 174 people was forced to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia following a violent cockpit incident.
Flight FZ1073 was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30 when the co-pilot allegedly attacked Machchhar, leaving him injured. During the struggle, the aircraft experienced a dramatic loss of altitude before crew members and passengers intervened. Machchhar reportedly managed to open the cockpit door, allowing others to help restrain the co-pilot.
Two relief pilots who were travelling on the aircraft then helped take control of the Boeing 737 MAX 8. The plane landed safely at Tabuk Airport, with all passengers and crew accounted for.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi later spoke with Machchhar and praised his bravery and quick thinking. The pilot, who remains under medical care, said his faith helped him stay calm during the crisis. Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and its possible motive.
