Tel Aviv flight 'hijack' scare: PM Modi speaks to hero pilot Smit Machchhar's family
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Captain Smit Machchhar for his bravery during a mid-air hijacking attempt on a flydubai flight. The pilot, despite being seriously injured, managed to alert authorities and help passengers restrain the attacker.
Why it matters
The incident highlights a major aviation security breach and the heroic actions of an Indian national that prevented a potential tragedy.
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to the wife and parents of Captain Smit Machchhar, the wounded pilot of the Dubai-Tel Aviv flydubai flight that survived an apparent hijacking attempt, government sources said on Thursday.According to the sources, PM Modi lauded Machchhar's bravery, saying his actions "saved hundreds of lives," and stressed that Indian missions were providing all possible assistance.Earlier in the day, the prime minister said in a post on X that India is "proud of Captain Machchhar.""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.
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