States » NorthPosted at: Oct 2 2026 3:56PM


Haryana Min Anil Vij hails Indian pilot Smit Machchhar for courage in flydubai mid-air attack

Panchkula, Oct 2 (UNI) Haryana Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Anil Vij on Friday commended Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his courage during the mid-air attack aboard a flydubai flight, and said his actions made the country proud.
Machchhar was captain of flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30 when the co-pilot attacked and stabbed him inside the cockpit. Despite his injuries, Machchhar opened the cockpit door, allowing others on board to intervene and restrain the attacker. The aircraft was diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.
Vij said Machchhar not only helped avert a major tragedy but also credited Indian culture for the values that guided him during the crisis. “Captain Smit Machchhar saved the aircraft from a mid-air disaster and brought glory to India,” Vij said.
“But what is more significant is that he is not taking credit for such a great act himself. He is giving credit to Indian culture. I believe in Indian culture, and this is a big thing. It is a matter of pride for every Indian,” he added.
The flight was carrying more than 170 people when the incident occurred. Reports say the aircraft entered a steep descent after the attack, before the situation was brought under control. Other pilots on board helped land the Boeing 737 safely at Tabuk. The co-pilot was taken into custody, and Machchhar received medical treatment for his injuries. Authorities are investigating the circumstances and motive behind the attack.
Machchhar's actions have drawn widespread praise, including from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Vij said the pilot's conduct represented both courage and humility.
“It is a matter of pride for every Indian — a moment that makes our chest swell with pride,” the minister said.
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Tags: #Haryana Min Anil Vij hails Indian pilot Smit Machchhar for courage in flydubai mid-air attack
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