'I Had One Last Fight Left In Me': Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar Recounts Cockpit Attack To Netanyahu

Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar recounted the harrowing moments of a cockpit attack on Flight FZ1073 to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The incident occurred on September 30, with the Boeing 737 MAX flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv, carrying approximately 174 passengers and crew at an altitude of 33,000-35,000 feet.

Machchhar described how his co-pilot, an Omani national named Hamam al-Hammami, suddenly attacked him from behind, striking him in the back of the head multiple times. At first, Machchhar thought the aircraft was damaged, but as the blows continued, he realized the threat was coming from within the cockpit. Despite his injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door and manage to escape, only for the co-pilot to quickly shut it again.

Passengers and crew attempted to gain access to the cockpit, while Machchhar lay injured on the floor. He said his experience as a pilot helped him understand what was happening to the aircraft even with his eyes closed. Eventually, Machchhar made a final push to open the door, and passengers stormed in to overpower the attacker. Israeli passenger Yaniv Hayun restrained the co-pilot using a chokehold and headphone cable, while others helped stabilize the aircraft.

Machchhar suffered severe injuries and was initially treated in Saudi Arabia before being transferred to Abu Dhabi for further medical care. The aircraft was later diverted and landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. The co-pilot was arrested and is currently under investigation. Netanyahu described Machchhar as a "hero" for his courage and quick thinking under extreme circumstances, praising him for saving numerous lives.