{
  "id": 16143916,
  "title": "Capt Smit Machchhar is ‘more than a pilot’",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/23/capt-smit-machchhar-is-more-than-a-pilot",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-10-23T03:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The National Business",
    "slug": "the-national-business",
    "url": "https://www.thenationalnews.com/opinion/feedback/2026/10/23/flydubai-pilot-captain-smit-machchhar-hero-ali-alhosani-imf-obesity-drugs/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A heartfelt message was shared with flydubai captain Smit Machchhar following a harrowing incident on October 19. Captain Machchhar, a pilot who bravely fought back against attackers, was commended for his incredible bravery and determination. Mina Al-Oraibi, one of the victims, praised the captain's resilience and honesty, acknowledging his choice to remain grateful rather than bitter. Several readers expressed their admiration and support for the captain, emphasizing his courage in the face of danger and his calm, decisive actions that ultimately saved many lives. The incident has been a source of inspiration and pride for the UAE, with many individuals congratulating Captain Machchhar and expressing their hope for his speedy recovery.",
  "summary": "Write to us: Share your feedback on the news of the week Stay blessed, Capt Machchhar This is regarding Mina Al-Oraibi’s conversation with flydubai captain Smit Machchhar (October 19): Capt Machchhar said: “It’s about moving forward, not staying stuck in the moment.” I see a courageous, honest man who has chosen gratitude over bitterness. May God bless you, captain. – Joey Habgood Capt Machchhar…",
  "key_points": [
    "Captain Smit Machchhar fought back against attackers on October 19.",
    "Mina Al-Oraibi praised his resilience and honesty.",
    "Captain Machchhar's actions saved many lives, inspiring the UAE."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Captain Machchhar's decisive response to the attack transforms a traumatic aviation security breach into a moment of national pride and a testament to individual resilience under extreme pressure.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}