New Delhi: In a video conversation on Friday, Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot who steered a Flydubai aircraft through a dramatic mid‑air crisis, recounted how he continued to fight for control despite sustaining severe injuries.
The trigger that led to the emergency
The Dubai‑to‑Tel Aviv flight encountered an abrupt issue involving the co‑pilot, causing a rapid loss of altitude. Machchhar was injured as the aircraft plunged, and the descent grew steeper. Eventually, passengers and crew breached the cockpit, and the plane was later diverted to a safe landing in Saudi Arabia.
Machchhar’s recollection of the crucial minutes
From his hospital bed, the captain explained that his decades of experience allowed him to sense the aircraft’s accelerating drop even after being knocked to the floor.
Ignoring the pain, he realized immediate action was required. He forced the cockpit door open, giving passengers and crew the chance to rush in and help stabilize the aircraft.
Machchhar emphasized his 17‑year aviation career—11 of them as a captain—stating that his training helped him identify the aircraft’s distress cues amid the chaos.
PM Modi lauds the pilot’s poise
During the call, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Machchhar for his bravery, calmness, and swift decision‑making, and he wished the captain a rapid, complete recovery.
The captain became visibly emotional while describing the moment he realized the plane was descending and felt compelled to act rather than remain a passive observer.
Safe landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
According to reports, the flight carried more than 170 passengers and crew members. After the cabin crew and passengers intervened, a second pair of Flydubai pilots took over and guided the aircraft to a secure touchdown at Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Machchhar continues to receive medical treatment following the incident.
Faith as a source of steadiness
Machchhar also revealed that his devotion played a crucial role during the ordeal. He recites the Hanuman Chalisa whenever he confronts fear or difficulty, and he kept chanting throughout the emergency.
The video call concluded with PM Modi reiterating his hopes for the captain’s swift recuperation after the harrowing episode that threatened the flight and everyone on board.
