Ashok Chakra for flydubai pilot? Rajya Sabha member urges PM Modi
Rajya Sabha member Kartikeya Sharma has formally requested that Prime Minister Modi award the Ashok Chakra to Captain Smit Machchar. The pilot is credited with saving 174 passengers during a mid-air hijacking attempt by a co-pilot on a flydubai flight.
Why it matters
The incident highlights extreme aviation security risks and the potential for national recognition of individual heroism in crisis situations.
NEW DELHI: Rajya Sabha member Kartikeya Sharma has written to PM Modi, urging him to consider awarding the country's highest peacetime gallantry award, the 'Ashok Chakra' to flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchar for his courage and presence of mind midair during a hijacking attempt made by Omani co-pilot.Machchar was critically injured during flydubai flight FZ1073 on September 30 after his co-pilot attacked him and attempted to take control of the aircraft.Despite suffering severe injuries, Machchar remained focused on protecting the 174 passengers on board and continued to carry out his duties under extreme circumstances.Sharma said Machchar's courage and composure during the crisis reflected the "indomitable spirit" and dedication to duty of Indians.
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