New Delhi: In a video link with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, Indian aviator Captain Smit Machchhar recounted how he continued to fight for control of a stricken Flydubai jet despite sustaining grave injuries.
What triggered the emergency?
The Flydubai flight, bound from Dubai to Tel Aviv, encountered an abrupt malfunction involving the co‑pilot, causing a rapid loss of altitude. The turbulence left Machchhar wounded and the aircraft plunging steeply. Passengers and crew eventually breached the cockpit, and the plane was later steered to a secure touchdown in Saudi Arabia.
Machchhar’s recollection of the decisive minutes
From his hospital bed, the captain explained that his decades of experience let him sense the aircraft’s accelerating descent even after being knocked to the floor.
Ignoring the pain, he realized immediate action was required. He forced the cockpit door open, granting passengers and crew access to assist in stabilising the flight.
Machchhar highlighted his 17‑year aviation career, including 11 years as a captain, noting that his training enabled him to recognise the aircraft’s distress cues amid the chaos.
PM Modi lauds the pilot’s poise
During the dialogue, Prime Minister Modi praised Machchhar’s bravery, composure and swift decision‑making, and sent heartfelt wishes for a rapid, full recovery.
The captain became visibly emotional while describing the moment he realised the plane was descending and felt compelled to intervene rather than remain a passive observer.
Safe landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
The flight carried more than 170 passengers and crew. After cabin crew and passengers intervened, a second pair of Flydubai pilots assumed control and guided the aircraft to a safe landing at Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Machchhar continues to receive medical treatment following the incident.
Faith as a source of calm
Machchhar also revealed that his spiritual practice helped him stay composed. He recites the Hanuman Chalisa whenever faced with fear or difficulty, and he kept chanting throughout the emergency.
The video call concluded with Prime Minister Modi reiterating his hopes for the captain’s swift recuperation after the harrowing episode that threatened the flight and everyone on board.
