'I was fighting for my life': Indian pilot hailed as hero recalls FlyDubai cockpit attack
The Indian airline captain who helped thwart an apparent attempt to crash a FlyDubai flight described Friday how he fought for his life in the minutes after his co-pilot stabbed him and the plane began a steep descent.
Indian pilot Smit Machchhar has opened the cockpit door of a Flydubai plane to allow passengers to gain control during an attack, saving many lives as the plane plummeted over 17,000 feet. Captured on video, Machchhar recounted his ordeal to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that he feared for others' lives when he decided to take action.
The co-pilot had severely injured Machchhar on the ground, but he persevered, opening the door just as passengers and crew overpowered the attacker and regained control of the plane. The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Machchhar's courage and quick thinking, describing him as a "true hero." Currently recovering in Abu Dhabi, Machchhar expressed gratitude for his resilience, stating he views his injuries not as obstacles but as part of his ongoing healing journey.
Written by urgent.news from BBC World's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- I wasn't going to let others die, says Indian pilot who opened cockpit door during attack bbc.co.uk
- Flydubai hijack attempt: Indian pilot Smit Machchhar hailed as ‘true hero’; friend says ‘He’s taught us courage’ livemint.com
- ‘I was fighting for my life’: Indian pilot hailed as hero recalls flydubai cockpit attack theage.com.au
- ‘I was fighting for my life’: Indian pilot hailed as hero recalls flydubai cockpit attack smh.com.au
- Govt to deliberate on advisory for Indian airlines after flydubai cockpit stabbing hindustantimes.com
- ‘I was fighting for my life’: Indian pilot hailed as hero recalls FlyDubai cockpit attack winnipegfreepress.com
