Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar has revealed what gave him courage during the terrifying Flydubai cockpit attack. Speaking to Prime Minister Narendra Modi from a UAE hospital, Machchhar said he was “fighting for my life” but realised that 170 passengers could lose their lives if he did not show courage. The injured pilot also revealed that he was reciting the Hanuman Chalisa during those critical moments. “Lord Hanuman gave me courage,” Machchhar told PM Modi. PM Modi praised Machchhar’s immense courage and bravery, calling him a hero and saying India is proud of him. 

Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar is being hailed as a hero after reportedly fighting off an alleged cockpit attack and helping save 174 people aboard a flydubai flight. Machchhar was reportedly stabbed by his Omani co-pilot during the Dubai-Tel Aviv flight. Despite being injured and covered in blood, the Indian captain managed to activate the cockpit door release, allowing passengers and crew to enter and overpower the alleged attacker. Investigators are examining whether an aircraft crash axe, rather than a smuggled knife, was used in the attack.