Indian pilot opens cockpit amid attack to avert crash

Fri Oct 02 2026 08:16:11 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A Flydubai pilot opens cockpit door under fire to stop rapid descent, saving passengers. Praise from India and Israel follows.

An Indian pilot aboard a Flydubai flight to Tel Aviv from Dubai opened the cockpit door while being attacked by a co‑pilot, stopping a sudden plunge and allowing passengers to help slow the plane. The pilot, Smit Machchhar, managed to reach the cockpit floor, was injured, yet pushed the door open before he could be overwhelmed. Ground crew were not far – a video call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed his bravery and quick decision‑making. The aircraft diverted to Saudi Arabia, where Machchhar first received treatment in Tabuk before being air‑lifted to Abu Dhabi. Both the Indian and Israeli governments have hailed him as a hero, with Netanyahu thanking him for saving lives.

A heroic stand in the skies

Smit Machchhar, an Indian naval officer, was a captain aboard a Flydubai jet bound for Tel Aviv when a disturbing dispute erupted with his co‑pilot. The situation escalated as the co‑pilot began a violent assault, with the plane showing signs of a rapid descent.

Despite being injured and lying on the floor, Machchhar managed to push his way into the cockpit. He forced the cockpit door open, allowing passengers and crew to board and help restrain the plane’s fall.

The aircraft was forced to divert to Saudi Arabia for safety. Machchhar was first treated in Tabuk before an airlift took him to Abu Dhabi. According to the Indian embassy in the UAE, he is now in stable condition.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the pilot’s courage, patience and swift action during a live video call. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also described him as a true hero for saving many lives.

The incident underscores the importance of cockpit security and crew readiness. Authorities are reviewing protocols to prevent similar threats and ensure swift emergency responses.