New Delhi: In a heartfelt video conversation on Friday, Captain Smit Machchhar – the Indian aviator at the center of the recent Flydubai mid‑air emergency – recounted how he continued to fight for the aircraft even after being badly wounded.
The chain of events that triggered the emergency
The Flydubai jet was cruising from Dubai to Tel Aviv when an abrupt issue involving the co‑pilot caused the aircraft to lose altitude at a rapid pace. The sudden jolt injured Machchhar, and the plane entered a steep dive. Passengers and cabin crew eventually breached the cockpit, and the aircraft was later steered to a safe touchdown in Saudi Arabia.
Machchhar’s narration of the crucial minutes
From his hospital bed, the captain explained that decades of cockpit experience let him sense the aircraft’s accelerating plunge even after being knocked to the floor.
“The pain was intense, but I knew I had to act,” he said. “I pushed the cockpit door open so the cabin crew and passengers could rush in and assist in stabilising the plane.”
He highlighted his 17‑year flying career – 11 of those as a captain – noting that rigorous training helped him recognise the aircraft’s distress signals amid the chaos.
Prime Minister Modi lauds the pilot’s composure
During the exchange, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Machchhar’s bravery, calmness and swift decision‑making. He also conveyed heartfelt wishes for a rapid, full recovery.
“Your courage under fire is a testament to the spirit of Indian aviation,” Modi remarked.
The captain grew emotional as he recalled the moment he realised the plane was descending and felt compelled to intervene rather than remain a passive observer.
Safe landing at Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
Flight records show that more than 170 passengers and crew were aboard. After the cabin crew and passengers intervened, a second pair of Flydubai pilots took control and guided the aircraft to a secure landing at Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Machchhar continues to receive medical treatment and monitoring following the incident.
Faith as a source of calm
The captain also disclosed that his devotion played a pivotal role during the ordeal. He recites the Hanuman Chalisa whenever he faces fear or hardship, and he kept chanting throughout the emergency to maintain composure.
The video call concluded with Prime Minister Modi reiterating his hopes for the captain’s swift recuperation after the harrowing episode that endangered the flight and everyone on board.
