News Desk: Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar, who was seriously injured during an alleged mid-air cockpit attack on a flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv, has recalled how he turned to the Hanuman Chalisa for courage while fighting to regain control of the aircraft.
Machchhar, who is currently recovering in a hospital in Abu Dhabi, shared details of the terrifying episode during a video call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday. Modi spoke to the pilot to enquire about his health and praised his courage and presence of mind during the emergency.
“Whenever I am in pain, I recite the Hanuman Chalisa. At that time too, I only kept reciting the Hanuman Chalisa,” Machchhar told Modi during the conversation.
An unforgettable conversation with Captain Smit, filled with pride and emotions. pic.twitter.com/CCf46PKOWR
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 2, 2026
‘I Had to Get Back on My Feet’
According to media reports, Machchhar was allegedly attacked and stabbed by his Omani co-pilot while operating flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30.
Despite sustaining serious injuries, the captain reportedly managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to enter and help overpower the alleged attacker.
Two off-duty pilots travelling as passengers were also reported to have assisted in securing the aircraft and restoring control.
Recalling the critical moments, Machchhar said his 17 years of flying experience helped him remain focused despite his injuries. He realised that he had to get back on his feet because the lives of everyone onboard were at risk.
He described the situation as a fight for survival, saying that the Hanuman Chalisa helped him maintain courage during the ordeal.
Flight Makes Emergency Landing
Reports said the aircraft entered a steep descent after the co-pilot allegedly attacked Machchhar and interfered with the aircraft’s controls.
The flight was reportedly carrying 174 passengers, including 27 children, when the crisis unfolded. The aircraft eventually made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where passengers and crew were brought to safety.
The exact circumstances and motive behind the alleged cockpit attack remain under investigation.
Modi Praises Pilot’s Presence of Mind
During the video call, Prime Minister Modi praised Machchhar for his determination and quick thinking in a situation that posed a serious threat to everyone onboard.
The conversation also touched on Machchhar’s family and his mother, Geeta Ben. Modi and Machchhar spoke in Gujarati, including about his recovery and the values he had received from the Bhagavad Gita.
Machchhar became emotional during the conversation and described the Prime Minister as his “biggest idol”, saying that receiving the call made him extremely proud.
The episode has since drawn attention to the pilot’s actions during the reported cockpit emergency, particularly his efforts to protect passengers despite sustaining serious injuries.
