Oct 1, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Indian pilot Captain Smith Machar for his bravery in the tragic incident in Flydubai flight FZ1073. A serious accident was averted by Smith’s action, which allowed the passengers and crew to enter the cockpit door despite being seriously injured. There were 174 people on board. Referring to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s comments, Modi said that an Indian prevented a ‘9/11-style tragedy’.
Captain Smith’s bravery was specially mentioned by Modi at the centenary celebrations of the Union Public Service Commission at the Bharat Mandapam in Delhi. He said that he showed extraordinary patience, punctuality and courage in dangerous situations. Smith’s bravery is a source of pride for every Indian. Earlier too, Modi described Smith as a ‘hero’ and praised his courage.
What happened on the Flydubai flight?
On September 30, there was a violent collision in the cockpit of FlyDubai FZ1073, which was flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv. According to allegations made by Israeli authorities, the co-pilot assaulted Captain Smith and tried to crash the plane. The investigation into these allegations is ongoing. During the incident, the Boeing 737 Max 8 plane suddenly lost altitude. Later the flight was diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia.
Captain Smith, badly wounded in the attack, managed to open the cockpit door. The passengers and crew then went inside and arrested the assailant. Additional flydubai pilots on board later took control of the flight and landed safely at Tabuk.
Modi’s speech with Captain Smith’s family
The Prime Minister disclosed that he also spoke to Smith’s family members. He said that he spoke to his parents and wife and gave them courage. It was stated that the Indian Missions are taking steps to provide necessary assistance to Smith. Modi asked the people of the country to pray for his speedy recovery.
Smith has long flying experience
Mumbai-based Captain Smith Machar previously worked for SpiceJet. Joined flydubai in 2022. He has over 9,750 hours of flying experience. In an aviation career spanning nearly 15 years, he spent most of his time with SpiceJet and later took over as Captain at Flydubai.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu also praised Smith’s actions. He is said to have played a vital role in saving the lives of 174 people by opening the cockpit door and allowing others to enter despite being seriously injured. The motive behind the incident and the full details of what happened in the cockpit are under investigation.
