Flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar recounts how he fought to protect more than 170 passengers after a co-pilot allegedly stabbed him during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
An ordinary flight turned into a terrifying mid-air emergency when Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian pilot aboard a Flydubai passenger aircraft, was allegedly stabbed by his co-pilot. Despite being injured and fighting for his own life, Machchhar said his priority remained the safety of more than 170 passengers on board.
Recalling the ordeal during a video call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the experienced pilot described how he gathered the strength to open the cockpit door from inside, allowing others to enter and help bring the situation under control.
“I was lying on the floor injured, but I told myself to go for one last push to open the door from inside,” he said.
Reflecting on the responsibility he felt towards everyone aboard the aircraft, he added, “I was of course fighting for my own life, but at the same time I knew I was not going to let others die.”
His account offers a glimpse into the frightening moments that unfolded thousands of feet above the ground and the determination that helped prevent the situation from becoming even more catastrophic.
What Happened Aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073?
The incident reportedly took place on Wednesday morning aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Around two and a half hours into the journey, the aircraft plunged more than 17,000 feet, raising an immediate alarm.
The aircraft first transmitted an emergency signal to air traffic controllers before switching to squawk code 7500, the internationally recognised code used to indicate unlawful interference, including a hijacking.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later said that one pilot had stabbed the other and had apparently attempted to crash the aircraft.
As the situation escalated, passengers and crew members intervened and managed to overpower the alleged attacker. Two reserve pilots who were travelling on board then took control of the aircraft and safely landed it at Tabuk Airport in north-western Saudi Arabia at 06:58 local time.
The safe landing brought an end to a frightening ordeal for those aboard the flight.
Indian Pilot’s Courage Draws Widespread Praise
Following the incident, Captain Smit Machchhar received widespread recognition for his courage and determination. His actions, despite his injuries, drew praise from Indian officials and leaders in Israel.
During his conversation with Prime Minister Modi, Machchhar revealed that he had been flying aircraft for 17 years. His extensive experience, he explained, had helped him understand the aircraft’s behaviour during the emergency.
“I can tell what is happening to the plane even with my eyes closed,” he told the prime minister.
Modi praised the captain’s courage, patience and quick decision-making, saying his actions had helped save many lives. The Indian government also expressed appreciation for his bravery, while Netanyahu described him as a true hero.
The Indian embassy in the United Arab Emirates subsequently confirmed that Machchhar was in good health and recovering well. Ambassador Deepak Mittal also expressed pride in the captain’s bravery after meeting him.
‘Recovery Will Take Time, but I Am Confident’
Following the attack, Machchhar was taken to a hospital in Tabuk before being airlifted to Abu Dhabi for further treatment. Despite the traumatic experience, the pilot has maintained a positive outlook towards his recovery.
Rather than viewing his injuries as an obstacle, he described the healing process as a journey that requires patience and determination.
“I am not looking at this wound like a wound because that would make my recovery even more difficult,” he said.
He acknowledged that regaining his health would take time but expressed confidence that he would eventually become fit and healthy again.
His words reflect the resilience with which he is approaching the difficult days following the incident.
Authorities Investigate Possible Motive
Meanwhile, authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack and whether it was connected to terrorism or another motive.
The United Arab Emirates has initiated an investigation to determine whether the incident was linked to any terrorist activity or purpose, according to the country's state news agency.
Netanyahu identified the alleged attacker as an Omani national and referred to preliminary findings suggesting possible Islamist radical indoctrination. He also said the individual had reportedly called on the crew to kill him after being restrained, which he interpreted as evidence of suicidal intent.
These statements form part of the emerging account of the incident, while the investigation continues to establish the full circumstances and motive.
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A Story of Courage in the Face of Danger
The reported attack aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073 has drawn attention to the unpredictable challenges that can arise during air travel. For Captain Smit Machchhar, the experience was not only a fight for survival but also a moment in which his responsibility towards passengers took precedence over his own safety.
Even while injured, he remained determined to act, making one final effort to open the cockpit door and allow others to help.
As he continues his recovery, the captain's account stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of courage, composure and quick decision-making in a crisis. His determination to protect those on board, even when his own life was at risk, has earned him widespread admiration.