'Recovering well': MEA gives health update on flydubai hero pilot Smit Machchhar
Flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar is recovering after being attacked by his co-pilot with an axe during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The co-pilot allegedly attempted to seize control of the aircraft, which resulted in a significant altitude loss before the crew regained control.
Why it matters
This incident raises serious questions about cockpit security protocols and the psychological screening of commercial airline pilots.
NEW DELHI: The ministry of external affairs (MEA) on Saturday said flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar was recovering well after he was attacked by his co-pilot during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv.The MEA said Machchhar remained under “excellent medical care” and that it was in touch with his family and local authorities.“Indian braveheart Capt. Smit remains under excellent medical care & is recovering well. We are in touch with his family & local authorities, extending support for a speedy recovery. Our thanks to UAE gov. for their care. We join well-wishers in praying for his good health,” Indian embassy in UAE said in a post on X.The attack took place on September 30 aboard flydubai flight FZ1073, which was bound for Tel Aviv.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in