Flydubai Flight Hijack: Captain Smit Machhar, the pilot who thwarted an alleged attempt to hijack a Flydubai flight, has revealed the harrowing moments inside the cockpit when his co-pilot suddenly attacked him. Captain Machhar sustained serious injuries during the assault. He shared the full account of the incident while speaking with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Captain Machhar recounted that the flight began quite normally. He was facing forward in the cockpit when his co-pilot asked for permission to pray. As it is not unusual for local passengers and crew to pray in this manner, he harbored no suspicion.
According to Machhar, out of respect for the co-pilot, he kept his gaze fixed forward rather than turning around to look. About four or five minutes later, he was suddenly struck a heavy blow on the back of his head.
He said, “While he was praying, I kept looking straight ahead out of respect, rather than turning around. Suddenly, after about four or five minutes, I received a very hard blow to the back of my head.”
Initially, the captain thought the aircraft might be experiencing a major technical issue or some other problem. However, after the attacks continued, he realized the danger lay not with the aircraft itself, but with the co-pilot inside the cockpit.
He explained that the initial blows severely impaired his vision, making it difficult for him to see clearly. Amidst this, he sensed the aircraft rapidly losing altitude. He noted that his memories of that time are not entirely clear; he recalls events only in fragments.
Captain Machhar recounted trying to open the cockpit door; it opened briefly, but he believes the attacker closed it again. The next thing he remembers is lying on the cockpit floor. Amidst the roar of the aircraft, the screams of passengers could also be heard.
It was then that he realized he might have just one last chance to prevent the plane from plunging. Despite being critically injured, he decided to try and reach the cockpit door once more.
Captain Machhar said, “I had the strength for one final attempt left in me. Whether for my own sake or for the people, I did it because if I hadn’t acted, my death was certain. I summoned all my remaining strength, reached the door, and opened it.”
He recounted that people outside the cockpit were ready to handle the situation. As soon as the door opened, they took immediate action and brought the situation under control.
After hearing the Captain’s full story, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu highly praised his courage. Netanyahu remarked that the way the Captain remained calm and made decisions under such dire circumstances was truly extraordinary.
Netanyahu stated that by saving the lives of those on board, Captain Machhar also sent a message to the world that brave individuals can confront even the most dangerous and violent situations.
Addressing the Captain, he said, “You are a hero of Israel. You are a hero of India. You are a hero to the entire world.”
Netanyahu also conveyed his best wishes to Captain Machhar’s family and hoped for his speedy recovery. He extended an invitation for the Captain to visit Israel again.
Furthermore, Netanyahu has invited Captain Machhar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to light a special torch at Israel’s next Independence Day celebration. He noted that the Captain’s next visit to Israel would be even more special and memorable. At the end of the conversation, the Israeli Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to Captain Machhar for his courage, stating that he deserves thanks for the way he exerted all his efforts to save lives under challenging circumstances.
