'The last push': FlyDubai captain Smit Machchhar recounts harrowing cockpit attack

Rajya Sabha MP Milind Deora has penned a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, advocating for the consideration of flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar for India's highest peacetime gallantry award, the Ashoka Chakra. Deora, representing Mumbai, expressed gratitude on behalf of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and the Shiv Sena for Machchhar's "extraordinary courage when it mattered most."

In his letter, Deora recounted the incident where Machchhar, a Mumbai-born pilot, bravely saved 174 passengers on board the flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Despite being seriously injured by his co-pilot, Machchhar continued to act, eventually opening the cockpit door, allowing others to intervene. Deora emphasized that Machchhar's actions went "far beyond the responsibilities of his profession," putting the lives of others before his own despite severe injuries.

Mumbai residents, particularly those in Deora's neighbourhood, expressed pride and called for Machchhar's recognition of the Ashoka Chakra. Deora noted that the Ashoka Chakra can be awarded to civilians for acts of "most conspicuous bravery," daring, pre-eminent valour or self-sacrifice. He urged the government to formally recognize Machchhar's actions, stating that such an honor would send a message that courage is not limited to the battlefield or specific professions.