Indian pilot stabbed on flydubai flight moved to Abu Dhabi for treatment

Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot who was stabbed by his co‑pilot on flydubai flight FZ 1073, has been moved from Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, to a hospital in Abu Dhabi for further treatment.

What Happened

The attack occurred when the co‑pilot allegedly tried to crash the aircraft and stabbed the captain. Machchhar managed to fight back, opened the cockpit door and allowed passengers and crew to enter, take control and restrain the attacker, averting a mid‑air disaster.

Reaction

The Ministry of External Affairs said the Indian ambassador to the UAE, Deepak Mittal, visited the pilot in the Abu Dhabi hospital and earlier met his family, promising all possible support for his recovery. The embassy in Abu Dhabi and the consulate in Dubai remain in close contact with local authorities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Machchhar a hero, praising his courage and saying he saved hundreds of lives. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also lauded his extraordinary bravery in a post on X. The MEA saluted the captain’s valour and noted the worldwide admiration he has received.

Context

Such violent incidents on commercial flights are extremely rare, and a pilot’s quick action can be the difference between tragedy and safety. The alleged co‑pilot has been described as a religious extremist, highlighting concerns about radicalisation risks in the aviation sector.