Captain Smit Machhar Saves 174 Lives During FlyDubai Flight Emergency

Captain Smit Machhar, a FlyDubai pilot, prevented a major aviation disaster on a Dubai–Tel Aviv flight when his co-pilot attempted to deliberately compromise the aircraft's controls. Despite sustaining severe injuries during a physical struggle in the cockpit, Machhar managed to alert cabin crew by opening the cockpit door, enabling them to restrain the co-pilot and regain control of the aircraft, saving all 174 passengers and crew on board.

Machhar, who had been a commercial pilot for over 13 years and captain for 11 years, drew on his extensive experience to recognize the emergency and take decisive action. Although knocked to the ground and bleeding heavily from his wounds, he recited the Hanuman Chalisa—a Hindu devotional text—and determined that he had to act to prevent catastrophe. He described his mindset during the crisis: "I was falling, but I knew what I had to do. I have been flying for 17 years and captain for 11 years—even with eyes closed, I know what's happening in the aircraft. I felt if I didn't get up and do something, things would get worse."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Machhar by video call on October 2, 2026, commending his courage and composure. Modi told him: "Your courage, patience, and wisdom have saved so many lives. You have shown that Indians are not life-takers, but life-savers who risk their own lives for others." During the call, Machhar became emotional and expressed his pride at receiving recognition from Modi, describing him as his greatest role model. Modi also praised Machhar's family for their moral strength and informed Machhar that the entire nation was praying for his full recovery.

Machhar was airlifted to Abu Dhabi for treatment and was recovering in a UAE hospital at the time of Modi's call. Indian Ambassador to the UAE Deepak Mittal reported that Machhar's condition was stable and his morale remained high. Modi assured Machhar that he was "just a phone call away" if any assistance was needed and that India's missions abroad would provide full support to Machhar and his family.

The incident has drawn international recognition. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called Machhar a "true hero," and US President Trump also praised his bravery. Gujarat state announced plans to honor Machhar with the 'Distinguished Gujarat Dignity Award,' and Israel indicated it would formally recognize his actions. Before joining FlyDubai in June 2022, Machhar had accumulated over 9,500 flight hours with SpiceJet, including more than 6,400 hours as pilot-in-command, and held experience in pilot training and supervision roles.