Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday spoke to Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot who was seriously injured while responding to an alleged attack inside the cockpit of a Flydubai flight, and praised his courage during the frightening incident.
Machchhar, who is recovering after being shifted to Abu Dhabi for further medical treatment, spoke to Modi through a video call. During the emotional conversation, the pilot described what he experienced during the attack and revealed that he was reciting the Hanuman Chalisa at the time.
The conversation left Machchhar emotional as he told the Prime Minister that speaking to him was a very special moment.
‘You Are My Biggest Idol,’ Machchhar Tells PM Modi
During the interaction, Machchhar expressed his admiration for Modi and said he had never imagined getting an opportunity to speak with him.
The pilot told the Prime Minister, “You are my biggest idol.”
Machchhar also explained what helped him remain composed during the terrifying situation. He said that whenever he finds himself in difficulty, he recites the Hanuman Chalisa, and he was doing the same when the incident unfolded inside the aircraft.
Modi praised Machchhar for remaining determined despite suffering serious injuries and said the country was proud of his actions.
PM Modi Praises Pilot’s Courage
Modi told Machchhar that Indians should be known for protecting lives rather than taking them.
“The country can proudly say that Indians are not those who take lives, but those who are willing to risk their lives to save others,” Modi said during the conversation.
The Prime Minister also spoke about Machchhar’s mother, Geeta Ben, and praised the values with which she had raised her son, referring to the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.
Machchhar said receiving the Prime Minister’s call made him extremely proud and gave him an emotional moment during his recovery.
Modi Had Earlier Called Machchhar’s Actions Extraordinary
A day earlier, Modi had publicly praised Machchhar while addressing the centenary celebrations of the Union Public Service Commission.
The Prime Minister said the pilot had displayed an exceptional level of courage by fighting back despite the danger to his own life.
“Captain Smit Machchhar has shown the world the highest form of courage,” Modi had said.
He added that Machchhar fought valiantly without worrying about his own safety and prevented what he described as another possible 9/11-like attack.
“140 crore Indians salute Captain Smit and are praying for his well-being,” Modi said.
The Prime Minister also said he had spoken with Machchhar’s parents and wife following the incident.
“He is undergoing treatment. Today, the entire world is proud of him. I urge my fellow citizens to pray for Smit’s long life and excellent health, and to honour our brother Smit, who has brought glory to India,” Modi said.
What Happened On Flydubai Flight FZ1073?
The incident took place on Wednesday aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
The aircraft sent emergency signals during the flight and subsequently made a sharp descent from around 34,000 feet before diverting to Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Airport in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
The flight was carrying 174 people, including 27 children.
Machchhar was seriously injured after he was allegedly attacked by his co-pilot inside the cockpit. Despite his injuries, he managed to respond to the situation and helped ensure that the aircraft could be brought under control and diverted safely.
The circumstances surrounding the attack and the motive behind it remain under investigation.
Captain Smit Machchhar Shifted To Abu Dhabi
Machchhar initially received medical treatment at a hospital in Tabuk following the incident. He was later shifted to Abu Dhabi for continued treatment and recovery.
The Ministry of External Affairs said it was closely monitoring his health and that Indian officials were maintaining contact with the authorities and Machchhar’s family.
Indian Ambassador to the UAE Deepak Mittal also met Machchhar in the hospital and enquired about his condition.
The MEA said that Indian diplomatic officials were providing all possible assistance to Machchhar and his family during his recovery.
