Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Flydubai captain Smit Machchhar over a video call on Friday and praised his courage and composure during a mid-air emergency.
The interaction came two days after Machchhar was reportedly injured in an alleged stabbing incident involving his co-pilot aboard a Flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
Machchhar Recalls Reciting Hanuman Chalisa
During the emotional conversation, Machchhar told PM Modi that the Prime Minister was his “biggest idol” and recalled reciting the Hanuman Chalisa while dealing with the crisis inside the aircraft.
Machchhar became emotional while speaking to Modi and said the interaction was a special moment for him. He also expressed his gratitude for receiving the Prime Minister’s call.
Modi told the pilot that people across the country were praying for his recovery and commended his courage during the incident.
Machchhar explained that reciting the Hanuman Chalisa is something he turns to during difficult situations and said he was doing the same while facing the emergency on the flight.
PM Modi Praises Pilot’s Courage
During the conversation, Machchhar briefed the Prime Minister about what happened inside the cockpit and described the moments when he attempted to respond despite his injuries.
He said that after being injured and falling down, he realised that the aircraft appeared to be descending and understood the seriousness of the situation. Drawing on his experience as a pilot, he said he was able to recognise what was happening with the aircraft even under extremely difficult circumstances.
Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, after which other people were able to enter and assist.
PM Modi praised his presence of mind and determination and wished him a speedy recovery.
Pilot Shifted To UAE For Treatment
Machchhar was seriously injured during the incident and was subsequently moved from Saudi Arabia to the United Arab Emirates for further medical treatment.
India’s Ambassador to the UAE, Deepak Mittal, also visited Machchhar and his family at the hospital and said the pilot was recovering well.
What Happened On Flydubai Flight FZ1073?
Machchhar was the captain of Flydubai flight FZ1073, a Boeing 737 MAX 8 carrying 174 passengers from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
According to reports, while the aircraft was flying over Saudi Arabia, the Omani co-pilot allegedly attacked and stabbed Machchhar inside the cockpit.
Despite his injuries, the captain reportedly managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to intervene. The aircraft subsequently faced difficulties before making an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
The incident has drawn attention to the pilot’s actions during the emergency, while Machchhar continues his recovery in the UAE.
