‘Saved us from a 9/11’: PM Modi praises Captain Smit Machchhar after terrifying flydubai cockpit attack

Speaking at an event, PM Modi said that Machchhar demonstrated "patience, wisdom, and courage" during the incident.

"The incident that occurred yesterday and the way in which India's Captain Smit Machchhar demonstrated patience, wisdom, and courage, and today Israel's Prime Minister said that this Hindustani saved us from a 9/11... This feat of Smit fills every citizen with pride," Modi said.

"Today, I also spoke with his father Bhupendra Bhai, his mother Geeta, and his wife Sonal. Today, the entire world is proud of him. I pray to my fellow citizens that we all pray for Smit's long life and good health, and congratulate brother Smit, who has enhanced India's pride," he added.

What happened aboard the flydubai flight?

The incident occurred on Wednesday aboard flydubai flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv with 174 passengers, including 27 children.

According to Israeli officials and passenger accounts, the co-pilot allegedly attacked Captain Machchhar inside the cockpit and stabbed him before attempting to interfere with the aircraft's controls. The plane subsequently went into a sharp descent, dropping thousands of feet in a short period.

Despite being seriously injured, Machchhar reportedly managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to enter and intervene.

Passengers, including an off-duty pilot, helped overpower the attacker, while another flydubai crew member helped regain control of the aircraft.

The aircraft transmitted emergency signals before being diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, where it made a safe emergency landing.

The captain and co-pilot were taken to hospital for treatment, while the passengers were subsequently flown to Israel on another flight.

Flydubai has said the incident involved an in-flight "altercation" and that the underlying reasons and motives remain subject to a formal investigation. The airline has urged against premature speculation.

PM Modi had earlier called Machchhar a 'hero'

In an earlier statement, PM Modi had described Captain Machchhar as a "hero", praising his courage despite suffering serious injuries.

"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," the Prime Minister said.

"His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy. India is proud of Captain Machchhar. Praying for his speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health," he added.

Machchhar has since undergone surgery and is reported to be in stable condition.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also publicly praised Machchhar, describing him as a "true hero" and crediting his actions, along with those of passengers and crew, with helping prevent a catastrophic outcome.