In brief
An Indian pilot on a Flydubai flight to Israel was attacked by a co‑pilot during the journey. He broke into the cockpit and opened the door, allowing passengers to overpower the assailant. The pilot, now in hospital, describes the moment as a fight for everyone’s survival and is hailed as a hero. After the flight landed safely in Saudi Arabia, the pilot received a call from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to thank him for his bravery.
A Flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Israel was the scene of a dramatic confrontation when a co‑pilot allegedly tried to seize control of the aircraft.
The pilot, Capt Smit Machchhar, fled into the cockpit, opened the cockpit door and allowed the other passengers to restrain the attacker, preventing a potential tragedy.
He was later admitted to a hospital, where he spoke in tears about the moment and the determination to protect all on board.
While recovering, the Indian Prime Minister Modi called to express gratitude for the pilot’s heroism and the successful outcome.
The flight landed safely in Saudi Arabia and all passengers and crew survived, marking the event as a stark reminder of the importance of crew cooperation and security in aviation.
