Injured Flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar stable after mid-air crisis, Indian mission says

New Delhi: The Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General of India in Jeddah are closely monitoring the condition of Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot of Flydubai flight FZ1073, who was injured while helping prevent a serious in-flight crisis that forced the aircraft to divert to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia.

In an update posted on X on Wednesday, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh said both missions were closely following developments concerning Machchhar's medical condition.

The pilot is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Tabuk city in northwest Saudi Arabia. The embassy said it was awaiting a detailed medical update, while initial reports indicated that his condition was stable.

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“We hope that he recovers from his injuries at the earliest,” the embassy stated.

The Indian mission said it was also in contact with Machchhar's family and would continue coordinating with Saudi authorities to provide all possible assistance.

“We are in touch with his family and assure them that we will continue to follow up on his health with Saudi authorities and extend all possible assistance for his well-being,” the statement added.

The embassy's update came after senior Israeli leaders praised Machchhar for his actions during the incident.

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the Indian pilot a “true hero” and praised his “extraordinary bravery”.

In a statement issued through the Prime Minister's Office on X, Netanyahu said Machchhar was stabbed and seriously injured during the incident but fought back and continued working to protect those aboard the aircraft.

According to Netanyahu, the pilot resisted the attacker, opened the cockpit door and allowed passengers and crew members to overpower the assailant, preventing what could have become a major mid-air disaster.

“He saved the lives of 174 people, including Israeli citizens and other nationals,” Netanyahu said.

The Israeli Prime Minister also wished Machchhar a speedy and full recovery.

Israeli diplomat Reuven Azar also praised the pilot and said he was praying for his recovery, describing Machchhar as an experienced and gifted aviator.

Referring to Flydubai flight FZ1073, Azar said the courage shown by Machchhar, along with Israeli and Emirati passengers and crew members, helped ensure the safety of everyone aboard.

“His courage and the courage of other Israeli and Emirati passengers and crew members saved the lives of 180 souls,” Azar said.

Azar also called for a united stand against terrorism.

The Indian and Israeli statements came as Machchhar's actions during the emergency continued to draw attention. While Indian authorities focused on his health and welfare, Israeli leaders highlighted his role in helping contain the incident and protect passengers and crew aboard the diverted Flydubai flight. IANS