Indian pilot hailed as 'hero' after cockpit struggle
Indian pilot Smit Machchhar is being hailed as a hero after successfully landing a flydubai flight despite being attacked by his co-pilot mid-flight. The incident, which resulted in injuries to the captain, was praised by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for preventing a major tragedy.
Why it matters
The incident highlights aviation safety protocols and the critical role of pilot composure during in-flight emergencies.
But for friends and neighbours in the Mumbai suburb where his parents live, the courage came as little surprise.
They describe Machchhar, who is in his 30s and holds more than a decade of flying experience, as a soft-spoken, helpful and "always smiling" man who has remained calm under pressure since childhood.
"We did not expect any less from him -- it did not come as a surprise," said Akshay Doshi, who has known Machchhar for around 15 years and lives next door to his parents in their apartment block.
"We are proud of him for his nature, for his bravery," another neighbour, Laxmikant Joshi, told AFP.
"He saved lives when he was in danger. And in the air when he was controlling the plane and suffering injuries!"
Machchhar has said the weight of responsibility for passengers' safety weighed heavily on his mind early in his flying career.
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