Pilots’ Body Writes To PM Modi Seeking Bravery Award For Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar
Mumbai, October 2, 2026: The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking a national bravery award or other appropriate civilian recognition for Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot who was seriously injured while helping avert a potential disaster aboard flydubai flight FZ1073. In a letter dated October 2, the pilots’ body described Machchhar’s…
Pilot Captain Smit Machchhar, who narrowly escaped a potential crash mid-air on a flydubai flight, recounted how reciting the Hanuman Chalisa helped him stay calm during the harrowing ordeal. In a video call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Smit revealed that whenever he faced pain, he repeatedly recited the prayer. "At that time too, I only kept reciting the Hanuman Chalisa," he told the Prime Minister.
Modi expressed his admiration for Smit's courage, presence of mind, and composure, stating that these qualities had saved several lives. He praised the pilot's actions, saying, "The whole country is praying for you. Maha Mrityunjay Jaap is being done for you and your health. Your courage, presence of mind and composure saved many lives."
Smit expressed his emotional state during the call, admitting that speaking with the Prime Minister was a dream come true. The Prime Minister also took a moment to commend Smit's mother, Geeta Ben, for raising him with the values and teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.
Written by urgent.news from The Indian Express - India's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
