By Anjali Sharma
WASHINGTON – The Indian Embassy in UAE on Saturday said Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot of flydubai flight FZ1073, is responding well to treatment and continues to receive medical attention following the mid-air attack earlier this week.
The Indian Embassy in UAE said Captain Smit Machchhar remains under medical care and is receiving support from his family.
The embassy said it is coordinating with Machchhar’s family and local authorities and thanked the UAE government for the care being provided to him.
“Indian brave heart 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 Govt for their care. We join well-wishers in praying for his good health,” the Indian mission posted on X.
Captain Machchhar was injured on Wednesday while trying to prevent a mid-air terrorist attack aboard the flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Israel.
Co pilot, Omani national stabbed Machchhar as the aircraft began to lose altitude.
Despite being seriously injured, the Indian pilot fought the attacker and managed to open the cockpit door.
Passengers then rushed to the cockpit, helped overpower the attacker and subdued him. Machchhar was stabilised while the aircraft continued its emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Captain Machchhar over a video call and praised his courage, presence of mind and composure during the incident. The Prime Minister said Machchhar’s actions helped save the lives of passengers and crew members.
Modi began the conversation by asking about Machchhar’s health and said the entire country was praying for his speedy recovery.
“The whole country is praying for you. Maha Mrityunjaya Jaap is being performed for you and your health. Your courage, presence of mind and composure saved many lives. The country can proudly say that Indians are not those who take lives, but those who are willing to risk their lives to save others,” PM Modi said.
Captain Machchhar nodded and responded, “Yes, sir.”
The Indian pilot has also received recognition from across the world, with leaders and people praising his bravery and actions during the mid-air attack that helped save hundreds of lives.
