PM Modi Speaks To Captain Smit Machchhar; Praises Bravery During Flydubai Cockpit Attack

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday spoke to Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar, who helped save passengers after facing a life-threatening attack inside the cockpit of a flydubai flight. PM Modi praised his courage and resourcefulness and wished him a speedy recovery.

Machchhar, who is recovering in the UAE, briefed the Prime Minister about the incident and what gave him the courage to confront the attacking co-pilot. Investigators are examining the circumstances and possible motive behind the attack.

On Thursday, Prime Minister  Modi spoke to Machchhar’s family and praised his bravery. He stressed that Indian missions were providing all possible assistance to the injured pilot.

Indian Ambassador to the UAE Deepak Mittal met Machchhar and his family at the hospital. He said the pilot was speaking, smiling and laughing and remained in good spirits.

“He was speaking openly, smiling and laughing, which was a great relief for us and, above all, for his family,” Mittal said.

The ambassador said Machchhar was receiving good medical treatment and that the Indian Embassy remained in constant contact with UAE authorities.

Machchhar was earlier airlifted from Saudi Arabia to the UAE after the flight made an emergency landing in Tabuk. The incident occurred on a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight after the co-pilot allegedly attacked him in the cockpit.

Mittal earlier praised Machchhar for his courage and credited him with helping avert a major tragedy.

Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack and thanked authorities for ensuring passengers’ safety and investigating the incident.

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