Injured flydubai FZ1073 pilot Capt. Smit Machchhar 'recovering well': Indian Embassy in UAE

The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi has reported that Captain Smit Machchhar, a Dubai-based Indian pilot for flydubai, is recovering well from injuries sustained during a violent incident on his flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The embassy shared an update on X stating that they are in contact with Machchhar's family and local authorities, and expressed gratitude to the UAE government for the pilot's care.

Machchhar, who was in command of the Boeing 737 MAX 8, was stabbed by the co-pilot, causing the flight to divert to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Upon arrival, Indian Ambassador to the UAE Dr. Deepak Mittal visited Machchhar and his family at the hospital on Thursday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the pilot a hero, crediting his courage for saving hundreds of lives and averting a tragedy.

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) of the UAE also praised Machchhar's bravery and quick response, along with that of the crew and passengers involved. They emphasized that the investigation's findings will be announced through official channels after completion and requested the public not to speculate on the results.