Captain Smit Machchhar, the FlyDubai pilot who fought off an alleged attempt to seize control of an aircraft bound for Israel, has recalled the terrifying moments inside the cockpit and how he made a final attempt to regain control despite serious injuries.
Speaking to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Machchhar said the flight had begun normally while his co-pilot prayed. He initially had no reason to suspect anything was wrong, as he understood praying to be common among local passengers and crew.
Machchhar said he was looking towards the front of the cockpit when he suddenly felt a heavy blow to the back of his head.
He initially thought the aircraft had suffered catastrophic damage, but realised after repeated blows that the co-pilot was attacking him. Machchhar tried to stop him, but the assault severely affected his vision and left him struggling to see clearly.
The pilot recalled feeling the aircraft sharply descend during the struggle. With his memory of the incident still fragmented, he said he remembered lying on the cockpit floor while hearing the aircraft and passengers screaming.
Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door once, but said he believed the co-pilot closed it again. Despite his injuries, he realised he had one final opportunity to prevent the aircraft from going down.
He said he gathered all his remaining strength and pushed towards the door, eventually managing to open it. People then intervened and took control of the situation.
Netanyahu praised Machchhar’s courage and calm judgement, calling him a hero of Israel, India and the world for saving lives.
He wished the pilot a speedy recovery and conveyed his regards to Machchhar’s wife.
Netanyahu also invited Machchhar and PM Modi to light a celebratory flame at Israel’s next Independence Day ceremony.
The call came a day after PM Modi praised Machchhar’s courage and resolve despite his serious injuries.
Also Read: Israeli PM Netanyahu Invites Captain Smit Machchhar, PM Modi To Light Independence Day Flame
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