03 October,2026 11:30 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Salman Khan and Smit Machchhar. Pics via Instagram and X
Bollywood actor Salman Khan has extended his appreciation to Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian flydubai pilot who was seriously injured during a mid-air attack on a Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight. Calling the captain's actions commendable, the actor said he would be happy to fly with him.
Salman took to X on Saturday to share a message for Machchhar following the dramatic incident aboard flydubai flight FZ1073. "You did an amazing job, Pilot; we all salute you. It would be a pleasure to fly with you... Well done, bro.. Capt Smit Machchhar," he wrote.
The actor's post came after details of the incident emerged, with Machchhar recounting the ordeal during a video call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi from his hospital bed in Abu Dhabi.
The flight was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30 when Machchhar was allegedly attacked by his co-pilot in the cockpit. The aircraft then went into a steep descent, losing thousands of feet in a short span before the crew brought the situation under control.
Despite being injured, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to enter and restrain the alleged attacker. The aircraft was then diverted and landed safely at Tabuk airport in Saudi Arabia.
Machchhar later described the moment to PM Modi, saying, "I knew that the aircraft was going down ... I had fallen to the ground. I told myself that the door is right there, just open it. I managed to do it, and people entered."
During the conversation with PM Modi, Machchhar revealed that he has been flying for 17 years and has worked as a captain for 11 years. He also spoke about the moment he realised the aircraft was losing altitude and the responsibility he felt towards those on board.
"I have been flying for the last 17 years, have been a captain for the last 11 years. I knew that the aircraft was going down," he said.
Machchhar, who is recovering in an Abu Dhabi hospital, also spoke about relying on his faith during the crisis. "I know God saved me," he told Modi, adding that he recited a prayer to Hanuman during the ordeal. Modi subsequently praised the captain's presence of mind and his efforts during the emergency.
As investigations into the cockpit attack continue, Machchhar has received praise from political leaders and public figures. Salman's message adds a Bollywood voice to the appreciation surrounding the captain's actions.
