Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan has praised flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his conduct during a serious mid-air emergency on Flight FZ1073, joining fellow actor Salman Khan in commending the pilot. 

Machchhar was seriously injured during an incident in the cockpit but continued to act to protect those on board, according to reports. The aircraft later made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia, with all 180 people on board able to disembark safely.

Shah Rukh Khan salutes pilot's courage

Shah Rukh Khan shared his message for Machchhar on his Instagram Story, describing the pilot's actions as an example of courage and professional duty.

SRK wrote, “Captain Smit Machchhar, you stood strong when it mattered the most!! It’s not easy to stare adversity in the face and put one’s safety on the line.”

“But you did just that to protect those onboard and showed us what being a Captain entails. A true display of courage and duty. Wishing you a speedy recovery, the country is proud of you.”

The actor's message came after reports about the pilot's role in dealing with the emergency and ensuring the aircraft could be brought under control.

Salman Khan also praises Captain Machchhar

Salman Khan had earlier expressed his admiration for Machchhar in a post on X. He said he would be comfortable flying with the pilot and praised him for his actions during the incident.

“Kamaal kar diya pilot ji, hum sab aap ko salute karte hain will be a pleasure to fly with u.. Well done bro.. Capt #SmitMachchhar,” Salman wrote.

Family expresses pride in Rajkot

Machchhar's family in Rajkot has also spoken about his actions, saying they are proud of his efforts and hoping for his recovery.

Speaking to ANI in Rajkot, his cousin Pulkit Machchhar said, "He is actually my cousin; our family, our community, and the entire nation are proud of the courage he displayed and the lives he saved through his actions. It is a matter of immense pride for our family and the entire country; naturally, when a national leader issues a personal statement, it is a proud moment, and the work he has done is a source of pride for everyone."

What happened aboard Flight FZ1073?

The incident took place on September 30 while the flight was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. According to the account provided, the Omani co-pilot allegedly attacked the commander with a knife in what was described as an attempt to bring down the aircraft.

The confrontation resulted in the aircraft entering a steep descent. The plane reportedly lost around 16,000 feet in about two minutes before a hijacking distress signal was transmitted.

Machchhar was seriously injured during the confrontation but continued to resist the attacker. Flight crew members and passengers subsequently entered the cockpit and helped restrain the alleged assailant, allowing the crew to regain control of the aircraft.

The flight was then diverted for an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. All 180 occupants were able to leave the aircraft safely.