01 October,2026 12:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Former neighbour Dr Janit Shah speaks about Captain Smit Machchhar in Mumbai. Pic/X
A former neighbour of Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar in Mumbai has praised the pilot as a talented and soft-spoken person after reports emerged that he helped save 174 lives despite being seriously injured during an in-flight incident.
Dr Janit Shah, who spoke to ANI in Mumbai on Thursday, said he had known Machchhar and his family for around 10 to 15 years when they lived in the same neighbourhood.
"Smit Machchhar is a talented, soft-spoken, and good man. He was my neighbor for the last 10-15 years before he shifted to Dubai 2-3 years ago. Now, the story has emerged that he was able to save 174 lives even after being stabbed. He is an incredible person, and I hope for his fast recovery. I hope his family is able to recover from this shock," Shah said.
Machchhar, the pilot of Flydubai flight FZ1073, was reportedly attacked during the flight but continued to act to protect passengers and crew. The aircraft was subsequently diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia.
Shah said the account of Machchhar's actions had highlighted his courage and described the pilot as an "incredible person".
His comments came amid widespread praise for Machchhar following the reported incident. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also spoken to the pilot's wife and parents and praised his bravery, according to people familiar with the matter.
"PM Modi has spoken to the wife and parents of Captain Smit Machchhar. PM applauded the bravery of Captain Smit, who saved hundreds of lives," sources said.
Machchhar is currently undergoing medical treatment at a hospital in Tabuk city in northwest Saudi Arabia.
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh has said it is in touch with his family and is coordinating with Saudi authorities to provide all possible assistance.
Earlier, Modi described Machchhar as a "hero" and praised his courage in protecting those on board despite being seriously injured.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had also praised the Indian pilot for what he described as "extraordinary bravery". Netanyahu said Machchhar's actions helped prevent what could have become a major aviation disaster and said the pilot saved the lives of 174 people, including Israeli citizens and other nationals.
Shah also expressed hope for Machchhar's speedy recovery and for his family to overcome the shock following the incident.
(With inputs from ANI)
