Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday praised Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot of Flydubai flight FZ1073, for his reported actions during an alleged attack on board the aircraft.
Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “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. Praying for his speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health,” the post read.
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…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 1, 2026
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also praised Machchhar for what he described as extraordinary bravery. He said the Indian pilot continued to act despite suffering stab wounds and serious injuries during the reported attack.
Netanyahu said Machchhar fought back, resisted the attacker and opened the cockpit door, enabling passengers and crew to overpower the assailant.
According to Netanyahu, the pilot’s actions prevented a catastrophic mid-air disaster and saved 174 people, including Israeli citizens and other nationals. He further wished Machchhar a speedy and full recovery, calling him a true hero.
My salute to the Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his extraordinary bravery.
Despite being stabbed and seriously injured, he fought back, resisted, opened the cockpit door, and enabled passengers and crew to overpower the attacker — preventing a catastrophic mid-air…
— Benjamin Netanyahu – בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) September 30, 2026
The Flydubai flight subsequently diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia following the reported incident.
Machchhar’s actions, according to the accounts shared by the two leaders, helped passengers and crew respond to the alleged attack and prevented the situation from escalating further.
Authorities will likely investigate the incident and establish the circumstances surrounding the reported attack and the flight’s diversion.
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