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Indian Pilot Praised After Flydubai Mid-Air Attack Averted

Indian Pilot Praised After Flydubai Mid-Air Attack Averted
"Indian Prevented 9/11-Style Attack": PM Modi's Big Praise For Hero Pilot · NDTV

A Flydubai plane was flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv when a fight happened in the cockpit.

Captain Smit Machchhar was badly hurt during the incident.

Even though he was injured, he opened the cockpit door.

This allowed passengers and other crew members to enter and help.

The plane had suddenly dropped and people feared it would crash.

The aircraft was diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia and landed safely.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Machchhar a hero and said India was proud of him.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also praised the pilot and the passengers.

Machchhar is receiving medical treatment for his injuries.

Key facts

Flight
Flydubai Flight FZ1073
Route
Dubai to Tel Aviv
Incident
An altercation occurred in the flight deck, seriously injuring Captain Smit Machchhar.
Emergency landing
The aircraft was diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, and landed safely.
Pilot’s action
Machchhar reportedly unlocked the cockpit door despite his injuries.
Passenger intervention
Passengers and crew members entered the cockpit and helped restrain the attacker and stabilize the aircraft.
Altitude loss
Passengers reported that the plane lost about 17,000 feet in one minute, according to Flightradar24.
Current condition
Machchhar is undergoing medical treatment at a hospital in Tabuk.

Quotes

Benjamin Netanyahu

Israeli prime minister speaking about Captain Smit Machchhar in a Fox News interview

“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”
republicworld.com
“The incident that occurred yesterday, Captain Smit of India demonstrated remarkable patience, presence of mind, and courage; indeed, as the Prime Minister of Israel stated today, an Indian prevented a 9/11-style tragedy. For every citizen of our country, Smit's valor fills us with immense pride”
NDTV republicworld.com

Sources

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