Dubai Crown Prince Praises Pilot Smit Machchhar
Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has praised Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his courage during the flydubai FZ1073 cockpit attack, describing his actions as an example of bravery and professionalism.
Dubai Crown Prince Meets Captain Smit Machchhar
Sheikh Hamdan met Machchhar in the UAE after the pilot returned from Saudi Arabia following medical treatment for injuries sustained during the September 30 incident.
The Crown Prince praised Machchhar for protecting passengers despite being seriously injured during the cockpit confrontation.
He also thanked other crew members, reserve pilots and passengers who assisted during the emergency and helped ensure the aircraft landed safely.
Machchhar Praised for Flydubai FZ1073 Response
Machchhar was commanding flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv when he was attacked inside the cockpit by the co-pilot.
Despite suffering multiple injuries, Machchhar managed to resist the attacker, communicate the emergency and open the cockpit door, allowing others aboard to intervene.
The aircraft was eventually diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely with more than 170 passengers and crew on board.
UAE Investigation Into Flydubai Attack Continues
Authorities are investigating the circumstances and motive behind the cockpit attack, including allegations that the co-pilot intended to deliberately crash the aircraft.
The UAE has treated the incident as a serious security matter, while flydubai has cooperated with investigators and temporarily suspended flights to Israel.
Machchhar has also been praised by Indian and Israeli leaders for his actions during the emergency.
