Heroic Pilot Overcomes Mid-Flight Attack
In a recent podcast from less than a year ago, Captain Smit Machchhar shared his thoughts on what to do “when things are going wrong” during a flight. He emphasized the importance of cabin crew, stating that while having a doctor on board would be a stroke of luck, it is often the flight crew that can truly save lives in an emergency.
“During a critical moment in the air, who do you turn to for help?” he asked, underscoring the critical role of the cabin crew. He noted that, fortunately, he had never had to make an emergency landing, expressing hope that it would remain that way.
However, just months later, those words took on a chilling significance.
Mid-Air Attack Forces Emergency Landing
On Wednesday, Captain Machchhar was flying a Boeing 737 MAX 8 from Dubai to Tel Aviv when an alarming incident occurred. His co-pilot reportedly attacked him in an effort to take control of the aircraft, even attempting to crash it, as stated by Israel’s Prime Minister.
As the plane began to spiral dangerously, Captain Machchhar bravely fought back against his assailant. Despite sustaining injuries, he managed to open the cockpit door, enabling a passenger and a crew member to step in and help subdue the co-pilot. Fortunately, two off-duty pilots from Flydubai were on board and landed the aircraft safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Following the incident, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended Captain Machchhar as a “hero,” expressing pride in his bravery. He stated, “In the face of great danger, he displayed incredible courage to protect the lives of others.”
Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, also praised the pilot for his remarkable actions, noting that he had saved the lives of 174 people on board.
Community and Family Support
Captain Machchhar, originally from Gujarat, has family in Mumbai who rushed to Saudi Arabia to be with him after the incident. His colleagues in the aviation industry have also expressed their admiration, with many calling him a “hero” in their statements of support. Flydubai, the airline he works for, urged a careful approach to speculation about the reasons behind the attack and sent wishes for his swift recovery.
Reflecting on his journey, Captain Machchhar revealed that his passion for flying ignited during a management course at the age of 19. His early flight training in New Zealand paved the way for a fruitful career, which included over 11 years at SpiceJet before joining Flydubai.
Friends and family describe Captain Machchhar as calm and dependable, highlighting his gentle nature. A childhood friend, Prateek Gandhi, shared that he was known for being the “least trouble-making kid” in their neighborhood.
Health Updates from the Hospital
In the aftermath of the incident, disturbing footage revealed Captain Machchhar on the ground with visible injuries. An Israeli dentist present on the flight provided first aid, stating that the captain suffered significant blood loss and was in dire condition.
Dr. Shota Musayev noted the severity of the injuries, describing extensive cuts that nearly severed parts of his head and hands. Thankfully, Captain Machchhar has since been hospitalized and is reportedly stable, with the Indian embassy in Saudi Arabia promising updates on his recovery.
As the aviation community and the public rally around him, there is hope for a swift recovery for this brave pilot who faced unimaginable danger in the sky.
