01 October,2026 10:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis meets Captain Smit Machchhar’s uncle and aunt on Thusrday (Pic/X@Dev_Fadnavis)
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has praised Mumbai-based FlyDubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his courage in an incident in which he reportedly helped save the lives of 180 passengers despite sustaining injuries.
In a statement issued by the Chief Minister's office on Thursday, October 1, Fadnavis described Captain Smit as a "true hero" and congratulated him for displaying exceptional courage in a life-threatening situation.
Maharashtra Chief Minister while hailing the captain said, "I am proud of Captain Smit, son of Mumbai and a true hero. Smit saved the lives of hundreds of people in a very extraordinary way."
The Chief Minister further hailed the pilot's preparedness and courage despite being seriously injured was exemplary. Fadnavis also praised the passengers for working together during the difficult situation.
"In difficult times, the passengers also worked as a team. I salute them," Fadnavis added, while wishing Captain Smit a speedy recovery and good health.
Calling the pilot an inspiration for young people, Fadnavis said Maharashtra and the country were proud of his actions.
"Your courage is an inspiration to the youth. Maharashtra and the country are proud of you," the Chief Minister said.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday met the uncle and aunt of FlyDubai Captain Smit Machchhar and expressed his appreciation for the pilot's actions during a recent mid-air emergency.
While posting on social media hanldle X, Fadnavis wrote, "Met Capt. Smit Machchhar's uncle and aunt today and expressed my heartfelt appreciation for his extraordinary courage."
Fadnavis also mentioned that Machchhar displayed courage, presence of mind and a sense of responsibility during the emergency, helping ensure the safety of those on board.
"In a moment of grave danger, Smit displayed remarkable courage, presence of mind and a deep sense of responsibility, helping save the lives of everyone on board," Fadnavis further added.
He also said that Machchhar's actions during the difficult situation were commendable and said the pilot had made Maharashtra and India proud.
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 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.
