PM Modi Praises flydubai Pilot Smit Machchaar for Averting Plane Crash
Key Highlights
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchaar on Friday to praise his heroism.
- Machchaar was stabbed by his co-pilot as the Dubai-Tel Aviv flight plunged 14,000 feet in 29 seconds on Wednesday.
- Despite his stab injuries, Machchaar unlocked the cockpit door, allowing passengers to overpower the attacker.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchaar on Friday. The pilot successfully stopped a mid-air attempt to crash a commercial aircraft flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
During the phone call, the prime minister asked about Machchaar's health and recovery. He commended the pilot for his quick thinking, bravery, and remarkable patience during the life-threatening crisis.
Prime Minister Modi praised Machchaar for protecting all the passengers aboard the aircraft. He noted that the entire country felt immense pride in his decisive actions.
"Your courage, valour and quick thinking saved the lives of so many people. Today, the entire country can say this with pride that we Indians are not the one who takes lives. However, one who save lives," PM, Modi said.
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during the call.
The pilot became emotional while speaking directly with the prime minister. He expressed deep gratitude for the personal encouragement from the Indian leader.
"You are my biggest idol. You called me and encouraged me, I am feeling very proud," Captain, Machchaar told. PM Modi.
The harrowing incident took place on Wednesday during the scheduled flight. Machchaar was attacked inside the cockpit by his co-pilot, an Omani national.
The co-pilot attempted to deliberately crash the passenger plane. During the violent altercation, the aircraft suddenly dropped 14,000 feet in just 29 seconds.
Machchaar suffered serious stab wounds during the struggle. Despite his critical injuries, he managed to unlock the flight deck door. This action allowed passengers to rush in, overpower the attacker, and safely secure the aircraft.
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Prior to calling the pilot, PM Modi spoke with Machchaar's wife and parents. He offered his full support and wished the injured captain a swift recovery.
While speaking publicly on Thursday, PM Modi highlighted the global reaction to the rescue. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also commended the pilot's heroism.
"And like Israeli PM today said that this Indian thwarted 9/11. For every Indian, Smit's bravery fills our heart with pride," PM, Modi stated. He added that the pilot's valour helped save hundreds of lives and averted a massive disaster.
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