An Indian airline captain has been hailed as a national hero after he fought off a co-pilot who tried to crash a Dubai–Tel Aviv flight, saving all 174 people on board.
Captain Smit Machchhar was in command of flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv on Wednesday, 30 September 2026, when the co-pilot allegedly stabbed him and attempted to take control of the aircraft. Despite serious injuries and heavy blood loss, Machchhar resisted the attack, managed to unlock the cockpit door, and allowed cabin crew and passengers to rush in and overpower the attacker.
The plane, which had plunged more than 17,000 feet from its cruising altitude, made an emergency landing at Prince Sultan Bin Abdel Aziz Airport in Tabuk, northwestern Saudi Arabia. All passengers and crew, including 27 children, survived.
Leaders hail “true hero” who averted tragedy
President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Machchhar’s courage and presence of mind. PM Modi called him a “HERO” and said an Indian had prevented a “9/11-style tragedy”.
“In the face of the gravest danger and despite being seriously injured, he showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others. His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy. India is proud of Captain Machchhar,” Modi said.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described Machchhar as a “true hero” who saved 174 lives, including Israeli citizens. Former U.S. President Donald Trump and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also lauded his bravery, with Patel calling him a “brave son of Gujarati origin” who made the country proud on the global stage.
Investigation underway, co-pilot arrested
Saudi authorities have arrested the Omani co-pilot over the stabbing and the attempt to crash the aircraft. The flight was diverted to Tabuk, where passengers were later able to continue their journey to Israel safely.
The incident has drawn global attention to aviation security and the role of cockpit protocols. Indian diplomatic missions, including the Indian Embassy in France, commended Machchhar’s “extraordinary courage” in their statements.
Captain Smit Machchhar’s actions are now being seen as a defining example of quick thinking and bravery under extreme pressure, turning a potential disaster into a story of survival and heroism.
