First blow, blurred vision and ‘one last fight’: flydubai pilot reveals how cockpit attack began
Dubai: It was an ordinary moment on what had, until then, been an ordinary flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Machchhar’s co-pilot was praying, something the captain said was not unusual. Out of respect, Machchhar kept his eyes towards the front of the cockpit while his colleague prayed behind him. Four or five minutes later, something slammed into the back of his head. At first, the veteran pilot…
A Dubai to Tel Aviv flight was proceeding normally when an attack began. The co-pilot, who was praying, struck the captain in the back of the head. The experienced pilot initially believed there had been catastrophic damage to the aircraft. Realizing the attack came from within, the captain fought back but his vision was severely impaired.
As the aircraft plummeted from 34,000 feet to over 17,000 feet, he managed to open the cockpit door but it was shut again. Lying on the floor of the aircraft, Machchhar managed to open the door and escape. The Boeing 737-8, carrying 174 passengers including 27 children, was eventually diverted to Saudi Arabia. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu praised Machchhar, calling him a hero for saving "so many souls."
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