New Delhi: Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian aviator at the centre of the recent Flydubai mid‑air incident, joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi on a video call on Friday to recount how he continued to fight even after being badly hurt.
The episode that triggered the emergency
The Flydubai jet was cruising from Dubai to Tel Aviv when an abrupt issue involving the co‑pilot caused a rapid loss of altitude. In the chaos, Machchhar was injured and the aircraft entered a steep dive. Passengers and crew eventually accessed the cockpit, and the plane was later steered to a safe landing in Saudi Arabia.
Machchhar’s narration of the decisive moments
From his hospital bed, the captain explained that decades of experience let him sense the aircraft’s accelerating plunge even after being knocked to the floor.
Ignoring the pain, he realised immediate action was required. He broke the cockpit door open, giving passengers and crew a pathway to rush in and assist in stabilising the flight.
Machchhar highlighted his 17‑year aviation career, including 11 years as a captain, stressing that his training helped him recognise the aircraft’s distress cues amid the turmoil.
PM Modi lauds the pilot’s composure
During the conversation, Prime Minister Modi praised Machchhar’s bravery, calmness and rapid decision‑making, and extended heartfelt wishes for a swift, full recovery.
The captain grew emotional while recalling the instant he sensed the descent and felt compelled to act rather than remain a passive observer.
Safe landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
Reports indicate the flight carried more than 170 passengers and crew members. After the cabin crew and passengers intervened, a second pair of Flydubai pilots assumed control 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 calm
Machchhar also shared that his devotion played a vital role during the ordeal. He recites the Hanuman Chalisa whenever he faces fear or hardship, and he kept chanting throughout the emergency.
The video call concluded with Prime Minister Modi reiterating his hopes for the captain’s rapid recuperation after the harrowing episode that threatened the flight and everyone aboard.
