Source TOI
Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar is showing steady signs of recovery and gaining his strength back, the Indian Embassy in the United Arab Emirates announced on Tuesday.
Machchhar was hailed across the world for his quick thinking and courage after surviving a violent attack by his co-pilot inside the cockpit of FlyDubai Flight FZ1073 on September 30.
The Indian diplomatic mission shared the positive update on social media, noting that the captain continues to receive excellent medical attention.
“Captain Smit Machchhar is making steady progress and regaining his health,” the embassy stated, thanking the public for their prayers and well-wishes.
What Happened in the Cockpit?
The flight was en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv carrying over 170 passengers when the co-pilot attacked Captain Machchhar with an emergency crash axe in an attempt to hijack the controls.
As the jet began an uncontrolled, sharp plunge of more than 17,000 feet, an injured and bleeding Machchhar summoned his remaining energy for one decisive move. He managed to hit the emergency switch to unlock the cockpit door.
Hearing the commotion, passengers and off-duty crew rushed in to overpower the attacker. Two reserve pilots took the controls and guided the aircraft to a safe emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, averting what officials described as a major disaster.
High Praise and Care
After receiving emergency care at a local hospital in Saudi Arabia, Captain Machchhar was airlifted to Abu Dhabi in the UAE for specialized treatment.
India’s Ambassador to the UAE, Deepak Mittal, who recently visited the captain and his family in the hospital, noted that Machchhar was in high spirits, talking and smiling as his health steadily improves.
World leaders and aviation bodies have widely praised the veteran captain’s bravery. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended his “unwavering resolve” and presence of mind, crediting him with saving hundreds of lives.
Authorities in the UAE continue their formal investigation into the attacker and the motives behind the incident.
