'Can't die like this': Indian pilot Smit Machchhar recalls flydubai flight ordeal
In a shocking incident on September 30, Indian Captain Smit Machchhar endured an assault by his Omani co-pilot aboard flydubai flight FZ1073 en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv. With injury and determination, Machchhar opened the cockpit door, allowing passengers to step in and restrain the assailant. The aircraft landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, following a critical altitude drop.
Indian pilot Smit Machchhar recounted the terrifying ordeal he faced aboard a Flydubai flight when his Omani co-pilot assaulted him. In a preview for an upcoming Sky News Arabia interview, Machchhar revealed he had a moment where he believed he might not survive. Describing his thoughts at the time, Machchhar said, "You can't die like this." He emphasized that he did not intend to accept his demise, but rather needed to take action to ensure his survival.
After the cockpit door was breached, Machchhar detailed the chaos and screams that ensued. He expressed his admiration for the colleague who took over the controls during the crisis, crediting their actions as commendable. Machchhar also spoke of the lasting impact the experience would have on him, stating, "It's something I'll keep with me till I die."
The incident occurred on September 30 during Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Machchhar, an Indian pilot, was reportedly attacked by his Omani co-pilot, identified as Hamam al-Hammami. Despite sustaining injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, enabling passengers to intervene and overpower the alleged attacker. The plane suffered a sudden drop in altitude before it was brought under control and redirected to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.
The exclusive interview with Machchhar is set to air on Sky News Arabia at 9 pm Abu Dhabi time or 10:30 pm IST (5 pm GMT).
Written by urgent.news from Times of India's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
