New Delhi, October 01, 2026

Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar has drawn praise after reportedly confronting his co-pilot during an alleged attempt to sabotage a flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Machchhar’s courage, saying his actions helped save hundreds of lives and prevent a major tragedy.

“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,” PM Modi wrote on X. He also prayed for Machchhar’s “speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health” and spoke to his wife and parents.

The incident unfolded while the Boeing 737 was flying at around 34,000 feet with more than 170 passengers on board. The co-pilot allegedly tried to sabotage the aircraft and later stabbed Machchhar when he intervened. Despite being seriously injured, Machchhar fought back and opened the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to overpower the attacker.

Two relief pilots then took control and diverted the aircraft to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. A dentist travelling on the flight reportedly provided emergency medical care to the injured captain. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar praised Machchhar’s “extraordinary courage”, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called him a “true hero” and credited his actions with preventing a catastrophic mid-air disaster.

US President Donald Trump also described Machchhar as a “hero” and called the co-pilot a “terrorist” and a “whack job”. Machchhar has more than 13 years of commercial flying experience on Boeing 737 aircraft and over 9,750 flying hours. His actions during the emergency have drawn praise from leaders in India and abroad as he recovers from his injuries.