I opened cockpit door of plane while being attacked, Indian pilot tells Modi

Indian pilot Smit Machchhar has recounted his harrowing experience of opening the cockpit door of an Israel-bound Flydubai plane he was attacked on. In a video call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Machchhar explained that he was on the ground and still under attack by his co-pilot when he realized the plane was rapidly descending.

Determined to save lives, he managed to open the door from inside, allowing passengers to enter and assist in stabilizing the situation. Machchhar emphasized that he was fighting for his own life as well, but he knew he couldn't let others perish. The plane was ultimately forced to divert to Saudi Arabia after the attack. Prime Minister Modi commended Machchhar's bravery, stating that his decision-making and quick actions saved numerous lives and brought pride to the entire country.

The Indian embassy in the UAE reported that Machchhar is in good health and recovering well after being initially treated in a Tabuk hospital before being airlifted to Abu Dhabi. The Indian Embassy in the UAE expressed pride in Machchhar's bravery and reassurance in meeting him.