New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday spoke to injured Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar, praising his courage, presence of mind and quick decision-making during an alleged mid-air attempt by his co-pilot to crash an Israel-bound flight.
Speaking from his hospital bed in Abu Dhabi, Machchhar recounted how, despite suffering serious injuries, he managed to open the cockpit door when he realised the aircraft was plunging. His action enabled passengers and crew to intervene, while two off-duty pilots helped take control and land the aircraft safely in Saudi Arabia.
Modi told Machchhar that his bravery had saved lives and enhanced the reputation of Indian pilots. He also wished him a speedy recovery and thanked the UAE and Saudi Arabia for facilitating his treatment. The Prime Minister briefly spoke to him in Gujarati as well.