An Indian airline captain is being praised for his actions after he was stabbed during a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv on Wednesday, triggering a sharp descent before the aircraft made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
Captain Smit Machchhar was seriously injured during the incident but survived and was reported to be in stable condition in hospital. The Associated Press reported that the attack was carried out by the flight’s co-pilot, who was later taken into custody in Saudi Arabia.
Flydubai said flight FZ1073 landed safely at Tabuk Airport and that all passengers were safe and accounted for. In its official incident update, the airline said crew regained control of the aircraft and diverted it safely, while the reasons and motive behind the cockpit altercation remained under investigation.
What Happened on the Flight
The flight was travelling from Dubai International Airport to Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv with 174 people on board.
According to AP, the co-pilot stabbed Machchhar during the flight, causing the aircraft to descend sharply. Passengers and crew then intervened, helping restrain the attacker and regain control of the situation.
AP reported that Machchhar, despite being badly injured, managed to help open the cockpit so others could intervene. Two pilots travelling on the aircraft subsequently helped bring the plane safely into Tabuk.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the attacker appeared to have intended to crash the aircraft. That claim reflects the Israeli government’s assessment and has not yet been established by the formal investigation.
Flydubai has said the cause and motive remain unknown pending the investigation and urged against premature conclusions.
Captain Praised as He Recovers
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Machchhar for what he described as immense courage and determination in protecting other lives despite his injuries.
In an official statement from the Indian Prime Minister’s Office, Modi said Machchhar’s actions helped save hundreds of people and avert a major tragedy.
The captain has also been praised by passengers, aviation colleagues and Israeli officials following the emergency.
The immediate crisis ended when the aircraft landed safely in Tabuk. Passengers later continued their journey to Israel on another flight, according to AP.
Investigation Continues
Saudi, Emirati and other authorities are investigating the incident, including the circumstances that led to the cockpit attack and the attacker’s motive.
Flydubai said it is cooperating with the relevant authorities and would provide further updates as confirmed information becomes available.
For now, the confirmed sequence is that a cockpit altercation occurred, the captain was stabbed, passengers and crew intervened, the aircraft was brought under control and it landed safely in Saudi Arabia.
The motive remains unconfirmed.
