01 October,2026 09:39 AM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Prime Minister Narendra Modi. File Photo
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday praised Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot of Flydubai flight FZ1073, for his actions during an in-flight attack that helped prevent a potentially serious incident.
Machchhar was injured during the incident but continued to act to protect passengers and crew members. The aircraft was subsequently diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia.
Taking to X, PM Modi described Machchhar as a "hero" and praised his actions despite being seriously injured.
"Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO. In the face of the gravest danger and despite being seriously injured, he showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others. His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy."
"India is proud of Captain Machchhar," he added.
The Prime Minister also prayed for the pilot's "speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health".
The incident drew attention after Machchhar continued to assist in dealing with the situation despite sustaining injuries during the flight.
Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Machchhar for what he described as "extraordinary bravery" during the incident.
In a statement posted by the Office of the Israeli Prime Minister on X, Netanyahu said Machchhar displayed exceptional courage despite being seriously injured.
"My salute to the Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his extraordinary bravery," Netanyahu said.
Netanyahu said the incident could have resulted in a serious aviation disaster and credited the pilot with helping prevent the situation from escalating.
According to the Israeli Prime Minister, Machchhar was stabbed and seriously wounded during the incident. Despite his injuries, he resisted the attacker, opened the cockpit door and enabled passengers and crew members to overpower the assailant.
The pilot's actions came after the attack took place during the flight. The aircraft was subsequently diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia.
Netanyahu said Machchhar's response prevented what could have become a major mid-air incident.
"He saved the lives of 174 people, including Israeli citizens and other nationals," the Israeli Prime Minister stated.
Netanyahu also expressed concern for Machchhar's condition and wished him a "speedy and full recovery".
Describing the Indian pilot as "a true hero", Netanyahu highlighted the actions taken by Machchhar despite his injuries during the incident.
