Bravery / PM Modi, Netanyahu Salute Captain Smit Machchhar’s Bravery

New Delhi, Oct 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday lauded Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot of Flydubai flight FZ1073, for his extraordinary bravery in averting a mid‑air crisis despite being gravely injured.

Describing him as a “hero” who showed “immense courage” and “unwavering resolve,” PM Modi said Machchhar’s actions safeguarded the lives of passengers and crew and prevented a potential tragedy.

The incident occurred when Captain Machchhar was attacked mid‑air but continued to act to safeguard passengers and crew, leading to the aircraft’s diversion to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia.

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Taking to X, Modi wrote: “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.”

He added, “India is proud of Captain Machchhar,” while praying for his “speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also lauded the pilot’s “extraordinary bravery” in preventing what he described as a potential mid‑air catastrophe.

In a statement posted on X, Netanyahu said Captain Machchhar displayed “exceptional courage despite being seriously injured.” He added: “My salute to the Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his extraordinary bravery.”

According to Netanyahu, the pilot was stabbed and seriously wounded during the attack but fought back, resisted the assailant, opened the cockpit door, and enabled passengers and crew to overpower the attacker.

“He saved the lives of 174 people, including Israeli citizens and other nationals,” Netanyahu stated, wishing him a “speedy and full recovery” and describing him as “a true hero.”

(IANS)