Smit Machchhar
‘Good health, recovering well’: MEA updates on Flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar
Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot injured in the Flydubai cockpit incident, has been shifted to Abu Dhabi for continued medical treatment and recovery, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday.
Machchhar had received initial medical treatment at a hospital in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, after the Flydubai flight made an emergency landing there following the mid-air incident.
Indian Envoy meets Machchhar in hospital
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India was continuing to closely follow Machchhar’s health condition.
India’s Ambassador to the UAE, Dr Deepak Mittal, met the injured pilot at the hospital in Abu Dhabi and enquired about his well-being, according to the ministry.
The ambassador had earlier met Machchhar’s family and assured them of all possible support for the captain’s health and recovery.
Embassy, Consulate in close touch with authorities
The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate in Dubai are also in close contact with local authorities regarding Machchhar’s treatment and recovery, the MEA said.
Statement on the health condition of Captain Smit Machchhar
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) October 1, 2026
🔗 https://t.co/AMmrEo1rAX pic.twitter.com/Js6hJX3WjG
The ministry did not disclose further medical details but said Machchhar had been moved to Abu Dhabi for “continued medical attention and recovery.”
An update from Ambassador Mittal separately said Machchhar was in stable condition and recovering well. The envoy said he found the pilot in good spirits during their meeting.
India salutes pilot’s courage
The MEA also praised Machchhar’s courage during the Flydubai flight incident and said India appreciated the widespread support and admiration he has received following his actions.
“We once again salute Captain Smit Machchhar’s valour and courage,” the ministry said, while conveying its appreciation for the support extended to the Indian pilot from around the world.
Machchhar was injured aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073 while it was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The aircraft subsequently made an emergency landing in Tabuk, where he received initial medical care before being transferred to Abu Dhabi.
‘Recovering well’: Indian ambassador
The latest health update provides reassurance about Machchhar’s condition after the serious incident.
The Indian Embassy remains in contact with UAE authorities to support his continued treatment and well-being.
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