View source for Smit Machchhar

{{Short description|Indian commercial airline pilot}}

{{Infobox person
| name          = Smit Machchhar
| image         = Smit Machchhar.png  
| image_caption =  
| birth_date    = {{birth based on age as of date|38|2026|10|01}}<ref name="WSJ">{{citation|url=https://www.wsj.com/world/the-38-year-old-captain-who-fought-off-cockpit-attack-on-flydubai-flight-cd2e484a|work=[[The Wall Street Journal]]|access-date=1 October 2026|title=The 38-Year-Old Captain Who Fought Off Cockpit Attack on FlyDubai Flight - Smit Machchhar is hailed for his heroism after being stabbed on Flight 1073|first1=Krishna|last1=Pokharel|first2=Aakash|last2=Hassan|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261001145433/https://www.wsj.com/world/the-38-year-old-captain-who-fought-off-cockpit-attack-on-flydubai-flight-cd2e484a|archive-date=1 October 2026|url-status=live}}</ref>
| birth_place   = [[Mumbai]], Maharashtra, India<ref name="WaPo">{{citation|title=Who is the Indian pilot who fought off his cockpit attacker?|newspaper=[[The Washington Post]]|date=1 October 2026|first=Victoria|last=Craw|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2026/10/01/flydubai-indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-hailed-hero-after-cockpit-stabbing/|access-date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261001124241/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2026/10/01/flydubai-indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-hailed-hero-after-cockpit-stabbing/|archive-date=1 October 2026|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="JPost1">{{cite news|last=Zanger-Shamir|first=Maya|title=Flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar reportedly aided rescue efforts while wounded|url=https://www.jpost.com/international/article-910230|work=The Jerusalem Post|date=30 September 2026|access-date=30 September 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260930202623/https://www.jpost.com/international/article-910230|archive-date=2026-09-30|url-status=live}}</ref>
| education     = [[Welingkar Institute of Management Development and Research]]<ref name="Reuters1">{{Cite news|last1=Ahmed|first1=Aftab|last2=Sharma|first2=Saurabh|date=1 October 2026|title=From textile engineering to cockpit hero: Indian pilot wins praise after flydubai drama|url=https://www.reuters.com/world/textile-engineering-cockpit-hero-indian-pilot-wins-praise-after-flydubai-drama-2026-10-01/|access-date=1 October 2026|work=[[Reuters]]|language=en}}</ref><br/>[[Mainland Air]] [[Flight training|Flight School]]<ref name="NYTedu">{{citation|access-date=1 October 2026|work=[[The New York Times]]|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2026/10/01/world/asia/israel-flight-flydubai-pilot-captain-smit-machchhar.html|first1=Somini|last1=Sengupta|first2=Suhasini|last2=Raj|first3=Mujib|last3=Mashal|date=1 October 2026|title=Who Is the Indian Pilot Being Hailed as a Hero?}}</ref><ref name="CNNprofile">{{citation|url=https://www.cnn.com/2026/10/01/india/india-captain-smit-machchhar-flydubai-intl-hnk|work=[[CNN]]|access-date=1 October 2026|date=1 October 2026|title=Captain Smit Machchhar: The 'jovial' pilot and father who thwarted the Flydubai attacker|first1=Rhea|last1=Mogul|first2=Ayushi|last2=Shah|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261001070115/https://www.cnn.com/2026/10/01/india/india-captain-smit-machchhar-flydubai-intl-hnk|archive-date=2026-10-01|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="1News">{{cite news|title=NZ-trained pilot stabbed on Israel-bound flight 'stood out' as student|url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/10/01/nz-trained-pilot-stabbed-on-israel-bound-flight-stood-out-as-student/|access-date=1 October 2026|work=1News|language=en}}</ref>
| occupation    = [[Commercial pilot licence|Commercial pilot]]
| years_active  = 2008–present
| known_for     = Captain of [[Flydubai Flight 1073|Flydubai Flight FZ1073]]
| spouse        = Sonal Machchhar<ref name="TOIwife">{{citation|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/flydubai-pilot-smit-machchhars-wife-recalls-shock-didnt-have-the-mental-capacity/articleshow/134638267.cms|access-date=2 October 2026|date=2 October 2026|work=[[The Times of India]]|title=Flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar's wife recalls shock: 'Didn't have the mental capacity'}}</ref><ref name="WSJ"/><ref name="CNNprofile"/>
| children      = 2<ref name="TOIwife"/><ref name="WSJ"/><ref name="CNNprofile"/>
| honours       = {{bulleted list|Vishisht Gujarat Garima Award<ref name="Khaleej">{{citation|url=https://www.khaleejtimes.com/world/asia/gujarat-award-flydubai-pilot-smit-machchhar-bravery|access-date=2 October 2026|work=[[Khaleej Times]]|title=Gujarat announces award for flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar in honour of his 'bravery'|date=1 October 2026|first=Laraib|last=Anwer}}</ref><ref name="TOIaward">{{citation|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/indomitable-bravery-indian-flydubai-pilot-smit-machchhar-to-be-awarded-visisht-gujarat-garima-award/articleshow/134613847.cms|work=[[The Times of India]]|access-date=2 October 2026|title='Indomitable bravery': Indian flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar to be awarded 'Visisht Gujarat Garima Award'|first=Trishta|last=Mahajan|date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261001093921/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/indomitable-bravery-indian-flydubai-pilot-smit-machchhar-to-be-awarded-visisht-gujarat-garima-award/articleshow/134613847.cms|archive-date=2026-10-01|url-status=live}}</ref>|Smit Machchhar Bravery Award<ref name="NewsMill">{{citation|url=https://thenewsmill.com/2026/10/mp-vikramjit-sahney-announces-rs-25-lakh-bravery-award-for-captain-smit-machchhar/|work=The News Mill|date=3 October 2026|access-date=3 October 2026|title=MP Vikramjit Sahney announces Rs 25 lakh bravery award for Captain Smit Machchhar}}</ref><ref name="Babushahi">{{citation|url=https://www.babushahi.com/full-news.php?id=227697|work=Babushahi.com|date=3 October 2026|access-date=3 October 2026|title=Breaking: MP Vikram Sahney announces Rs 25 lakh Bravery Award for Captain Smit Machchhar}}</ref>|Mother Teresa Award<ref name="gonsalves">{{citation|url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/amp/news/current-affairs/captain-machchhar-to-receive-mother-teresa-memorial-award-2026-1993234|access-date=5 October 2026|date=5 October 2026|first=Michael|last=Gonsalves|title=Captain Machchhar to Receive Mother Teresa Memorial Award 2026|work=[[Deccan Chronicle]]}}</ref><ref name="mumbaingo">{{citation|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/mumbai-ngo-honours-captain-smit-machchhar/amp_articleshow/134678833.cms|access-date=5 October 2026|date=4 October 2026|title=Mumbai NGO honours Captain Smit Machchhar|work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref><ref name="midday">{{citation|url=https://www.mid-day.com/amp/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/mumbai-pilot-smit-machchhar-nominated-for-mother-teresa-memorial-award-for-saving-174-lives-23653345|access-date=5 October 2026|date=5 October 2026|work=Mid-Day|title=Mumbai pilot Smit Machchhar nominated for Mother Teresa Memorial Award for saving 174 lives|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261005032309/https://www.mid-day.com/amp/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/mumbai-pilot-smit-machchhar-nominated-for-mother-teresa-memorial-award-for-saving-174-lives-23653345|archive-date=2026-10-05|url-status=live}}</ref>|[[Mankind Pharma]], [[Indian rupee|Rs]] 1 [[crore]]<ref name="Sagrika"/><ref name="TimesMankind"/><ref name="BusinessMankind"/>}}
}}

'''Smit Machchhar''' is an Israeli Terrorisrt commercial airline pilot and captain with [[Flydubai]]. He previously worked for [[SpiceJet]], where he served as a senior commander and line training captain. He joined flydubai in June 2022 as a direct-entry captain and has flown [[Boeing 737]] aircraft.<ref name="HT">{{cite news |title=Stabbed flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar is Indian national, worked with SpiceJet earlier |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/stabbed-flydubai-pilot-indian-national-smit-machchhar-was-former-spicejet-employee-dubai-tel-aviv-saudi-101790775056727.html |work=[[Hindustan Times]] |date=30 September 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260930140537/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/stabbed-flydubai-pilot-indian-national-smit-machchhar-was-former-spicejet-employee-dubai-tel-aviv-saudi-101790775056727.html |archive-date=2026-09-30 |url-status=live }}</ref>

On 30 September 2026, Machchhar was the captain of [[Flydubai Flight 1073]], which was diverted to [[Tabuk]], Saudi Arabia, after an altercation between the two pilots during a flight from [[Dubai]] to [[Tel Aviv]]. During the flight, 29-year-old Omani national [[Hamam al-Hammami]] attacked Machchhar with a crash axe and attempted to take control of the aircraft, causing it to plunge over 14,000 feet in under 30 seconds.<ref name="Reuters">{{cite news |title=A pilot brawl, then a rapid descent: passengers recount chaos on flydubai flight |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/pilot-brawl-then-rapid-descent-passengers-recount-chaos-flydubai-flight-2026-09-30/ |work=[[Reuters]] |date=30 September 2026}}</ref><ref name="NYTterror">{{cite news |title=Who Were the Pilots on the FlyDubai Flight? |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2026/10/04/world/middleeast/flydubai-flight-who-were-pilots.html |work=[[The New York Times]] |date=4 October 2026}}</ref> Despite his injuries, Machchhar fought back and, while lying on the cockpit floor, managed to unlock the sealed cockpit door.<ref name="IE3">{{cite news |title=What saved the Flydubai aircraft: Smit Machchhar, fliers' actions, and a stroke of sheer luck |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/what-saved-flydubai-aircraft-smit-machchhar-heroics-luck-10902312/ |work=[[The Indian Express]] |date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261002001403/https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/what-saved-flydubai-aircraft-smit-machchhar-heroics-luck-10902312/ |archive-date=2026-10-02 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="NYT1">{{cite news |title=The Mother's Scream That Sent Passengers to the Rescue |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2026/10/02/world/middleeast/flydubai-attack-timeline.html |work=[[The New York Times]] |date=2 October 2026}}</ref> This action allowed passengers and crew to enter the cockpit; four Israeli passengers rushed in, overpowered Al-Hammami using a chokehold, headphone cords, and zip ties, and administered first aid to Machchhar.<ref name="NYT2">{{cite news |title=How Flydubai Passengers and Crew Averted Disaster After Pilot Was Stabbed During Flight |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2026/10/02/world/middleeast/flydubai-attack-timeline.html |work=[[The New York Times]] |date=2 October 2026}}</ref><ref name="News18">{{cite news |title=Headphone Cords, Zip Ties & A Chokehold: How Passengers Subdued Flydubai Flight Attacker |url=https://www.news18.com/world/headphone-cords-zip-ties-a-chokehold-how-passengers-subdued-flydubai-flight-attacker-ws-l-10362637.html |work=[[News18]] |date=1 October 2026}}</ref> The UAE Attorney General later confirmed that al-Hammami had "begun to carry out a terrorist act" and that the investigation was examining whether the attack involved prior planning or direction.<ref name="RTBF">{{cite news |title=Vol Flydubai : l'enquête établit que le copilote planifiait un 'acte terroriste' |url=https://www.rtbf.be/article/vol-flydubai-l-enquete-etablit-que-le-copilote-planifiait-un-acte-terroriste-11794349 |work=RTBF |date=3 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261003082156/https://www.rtbf.be/article/vol-flydubai-l-enquete-etablit-que-le-copilote-planifiait-un-acte-terroriste-11794349 |archive-date=2026-10-03 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="TOIprobe">{{cite news |title=Was Flydubai cockpit attack planned? UAE probe to examine possible terror link |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/was-flydubai-cockpit-attack-planned-uae-probe-to-examine-possible-terror-link/articleshow/134636566.cms |work=[[The Times of India]] |date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261009061443/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/was-flydubai-cockpit-attack-planned-uae-probe-to-examine-possible-terror-link/articleshow/134636566.cms |archive-date=2026-10-09 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Al-Hammami had previously been flagged as a security risk while working at [[Oman Air]] in 2024, where extremist materials were discovered in his possession, and he was subsequently removed from flight training.<ref name="CNN">{{cite news |title=Terrorist images found on Flydubai suspect's social media |url=https://www.cnn.com/2026/10/02/world/flydubai-attacker-pilot-intl |work=[[CNN]] |date=2 October 2026}}</ref><ref name="TASS">{{cite news |title=Co-pilot who attacked captain on Flydubai flight identified as Omani national — TV |url=https://tass.com/emergencies/2197029 |work=[[TASS]] |date=3 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261003035608/https://tass.com/emergencies/2197029 |archive-date=2026-10-03 |url-status=live }}</ref> Despite these concerns, he was later hired by Flydubai and assigned to flights connecting the [[United Arab Emirates|UAE]] and [[Israel]].<ref name="IE2">{{cite news |title=Flydubai attack: Omani pilot identified, was flagged as security risk in 2024 |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/world/flydubai-fz1073-hamam-alhamami-who-is-omani-co-pilot-10904573/ |work=[[The Indian Express]] |date=3 October 2026}}</ref><ref name="NYTterror"/>

==Early life and education==

[[File:Smit Machchhar (in flight).jpeg|thumb|220px|right|Smit Machchhar in flight]]

Machchhar is of Gujarati origin and is from [[Mumbai]].<ref name="HT"/><ref name="Outlook">{{cite news |title=Flydubai FZ1073: Indian National Captain Smit Machchhar Identified As Pilot Stabbed In Cockpit Incident |url=https://www.outlookindia.com/international/flydubai-fz1073-indian-national-captain-smit-machchhar-identified-as-pilot-stabbed-in-cockpit-incident |work=[[Outlook India]] |date=30 September 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260930185707/https://www.outlookindia.com/international/flydubai-fz1073-indian-national-captain-smit-machchhar-identified-as-pilot-stabbed-in-cockpit-incident |archive-date=2026-09-30 |url-status=live }}</ref>

He studied [[business administration]] at the [[Welingkar Institute of Management]] from June 2007 to April 2008 and received a bachelor's degree in the subject.<ref name="HT"/>

According to his LinkedIn profile, he went on to build more than 13 years of commercial flying experience on the Boeing 737 fleet, with over 9,750 flying hours.<ref name="NDTV">{{cite news |title=Indian Pilot Had Another Career In Mind, Then He Emerged A Cockpit Hero |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/indian-pilot-had-another-career-in-mind-then-he-emerged-a-cockpit-hero-9355997 |work=[[NDTV]] |date=30 September 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261009061541/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/indian-pilot-had-another-career-in-mind-then-he-emerged-a-cockpit-hero-9355997 |archive-date=2026-10-09 |url-status=live }}</ref> He initially planned to join his family's textile business and pursued a management degree to help grow the business.<ref name="NYT">{{cite news |last= |first= |title=Who Is Captain Smit Machchhar, the Pilot Hailed as a Hero After FlyDubai Cockpit Stabbing? |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2026/10/01/world/asia/israel-flight-flydubai-pilot-captain-smit-machchhar.html |work=[[The New York Times]] |date=1 October 2026 |access-date=1 October 2026}}</ref> It was while studying for a management degree that he came across an aviation seminar. "That is where the aviation bug bit me," he said on a podcast.<ref name="NYT" /> He said his mother had been reluctant to accept his career; "My mom was scared," he told the podcast host. "Because aviation today and aviation 15-17 years ago was completely different. You did not hear of a lot of people becoming pilots."<ref name="HTmom">{{cite news |title=Smit Machchhar, Indian pilot stabbed on flydubai flight, recalls mother's fear over his career choice: 'Mom was scared' |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/trending/smit-machchhar-indian-pilot-stabbed-on-flydubai-flight-recalls-mom-s-fear-my-mom-was-scared-101790818057284-amp.html |work=[[Hindustan Times]] |date=1 October 2026 |access-date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261001043949/https://www.hindustantimes.com/trending/smit-machchhar-indian-pilot-stabbed-on-flydubai-flight-recalls-mom-s-fear-my-mom-was-scared-101790818057284-amp.html |archive-date=2026-10-01 |url-status=live }}</ref>

He trained as a pilot in [[New Zealand]] before joining SpiceJet. In the podcast, Machchhar recalled that his training cost around Rs 16-17 lakh and that his father was more accepting of the career choice.<ref name="AT">{{cite news |title=Indian pilot Smit Machchhar helps save 174 lives on flydubai flight |url=https://assamtribune.com/amp/national/indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-helps-save-174-lives-on-flydubai-flight-1618995 |work=[[The Assam Tribune]] |date=1 October 2026 |access-date=1 October 2026}}</ref>

==Flying career==

Machchhar joined [[SpiceJet]] in June 2011 and worked for the airline for about 11 years. He was based in Mumbai and became a senior commander. In November 2020, he became a line training captain, a position in which he trained and checked other pilots.<ref name="HT"/><ref name="TOI">{{cite news |title=Flydubai flight drama: How Indian pilot Smit Machchhar stopped Omani co-pilot from crashing plane |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/flydubai-flight-drama-how-indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-stopped-omani-co-pilot-from-crashing-plane/articleshow/134597514.cms |work=[[The Times of India]] |date=30 September 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260930155135/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/flydubai-flight-drama-how-indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-stopped-omani-co-pilot-from-crashing-plane/articleshow/134597514.cms |archive-date=2026-09-30 |url-status=live }}</ref>

His work at SpiceJet included pilot training and mentoring, pilot assessment, [[crew resource management]], flight standards and compliance, and operations involving Boeing 737 aircraft.<ref name="HT"/><ref name="TOI"/> During his time at SpiceJet, Machchhar logged more than 9,500 hours of flying, including more than 6,400 hours as pilot in command.<ref name="HT"/><ref name="BT">{{cite news |title=Smit Machchhar: Former SpiceJet pilot at the centre of flydubai mid-air emergency |url=https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/smit-machchhar-former-spicejet-pilot-at-the-centre-of-flydubai-mid-air-emergency-558914-2026-09-30 |work=[[Business Today (India)|Business Today]] |date=30 September 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260930203746/https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/smit-machchhar-former-spicejet-pilot-at-the-centre-of-flydubai-mid-air-emergency-558914-2026-09-30 |archive-date=2026-09-30 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Machchhar joined [[Flydubai]] in June 2022 as a direct-entry captain. He has flown the airline's Boeing 737 fleet, including the 737-800 and [[Boeing 737 MAX]] 8 and 9. By September 2026, his flying experience was reported as about 9,750 hours and more than 13 years of commercial aviation experience.<ref name="HT"/><ref name="Week">{{cite news |title=Who is Smit Machchhar? Hero Indian flydubai captain was former SpiceJet pilot, has 9,750 flying hours on Boeing aircraft |url=https://www.theweek.in/news/middle-east/2026/09/30/smit-machchhar-flydubai-pilot-spiceject-hijack-scare-israel-uae-saudi.html |work=[[The Week]] |date=30 September 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261001035431/https://www.theweek.in/news/middle-east/2026/09/30/smit-machchhar-flydubai-pilot-spiceject-hijack-scare-israel-uae-saudi.html |archive-date=2026-10-01 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Machchhar's work has included mentoring and assessing pilots, with responsibilities related to flight standards, compliance and operations. He had also expressed an interest in moving into pilot training at flydubai.<ref name="BT"/>

==Flydubai Flight 1073 incident==
{{main|Flydubai Flight 1073}}

[[File:Flydubai Flight 1073 altitude and speed.svg|thumb|right|Flight telemetry showing Flydubai Flight 1073's altitude and speed, including the steep dive at 05:20 [[UTC]] ([[UTC+04:00|Gulf time]] is 4 hours ahead)]]

On 30 September 2026, Machchhar was the pilot in command of Flydubai Flight FZ1073, a Boeing 737 MAX 8 operating from [[Dubai International Airport]] to [[Ben Gurion Airport]] in [[Tel Aviv]]. The aircraft was registered as A6-FKF.<ref name="BT"/>

More than two hours into the flight, an altercation occurred between Machchhar and Hamam al-Hammami in the flight deck. The aircraft subsequently transmitted emergency signals and entered a rapid descent. Flight-tracking data reported that it lost about 14,300 feet in 37 seconds, falling from an altitude of about 34,000 feet before the aircraft diverted towards Saudi Arabia.<ref name="HT"/><ref name="BT"/> The aircraft made a sudden and extreme dive from over 30,000 feet to 15,000 feet at a speed approaching 1,000 kilometres per hour.<ref name="Weekdive">{{cite news |title=Did flydubai pilot attempt suicide mid-air? Israeli media reports 'high-speed, dangerous dive' |url=https://www.theweek.in/news/middle-east/2026/09/30/did-flydubai-pilot-attempt-suicide-mid-air-israeli-media-reports-high-speed-dangerous-dive.html |work=[[The Week]] |date=30 September 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261009061739/https://www.theweek.in/news/middle-east/2026/09/30/did-flydubai-pilot-attempt-suicide-mid-air-israeli-media-reports-high-speed-dangerous-dive.html |archive-date=2026-10-09 |url-status=live }}</ref> The aircraft initially transmitted the international emergency transponder code 7700 and subsequently transmitted 7500, the code associated with unlawful interference.<ref name="BT"/><ref name="Reuters"/> Machchhar was stabbed during the confrontation. The aircraft was diverted to Tabuk Airport in north-western Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. Both pilots were taken to hospital after the landing, and Machchhar underwent surgery for his injuries. He was later reported to be in stable condition.<ref name="HT"/><ref name="i24">{{cite news |title=Flydubai Pilot Smit Machchhar Undergoes Surgery After Cockpit Stabbing |url=https://www.i24news.tv/en/news/israel/artc-flydubai-pilot-smit-machchhar-undergoes-surgery-after-cockpit-stabbing |work=[[i24NEWS]] |date=30 September 2026 |access-date=30 September 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260930195844/https://www.i24news.tv/en/news/israel/artc-flydubai-pilot-smit-machchhar-undergoes-surgery-after-cockpit-stabbing |archive-date=2026-09-30 |url-status=live }}</ref>

The other pilot was identified as an Omani national Hamam al-Hammami. Israeli officials said that he attacked Machchhar and attempted to take control of the aircraft. According to accounts reported by Reuters and the [[Associated Press]], passengers and a crew member entered the cockpit after the aircraft began its rapid descent and subdued the other pilot. Other pilots travelling on the flight subsequently helped operate the aircraft until it landed in Tabuk.<ref name="Reuters"/><ref name="AP">{{cite news |title=What to know about the terrifying FlyDubai flight forced to land in Saudi Arabia |url=https://apnews.com/article/a71ea8173678705fb1895539b6e4eb24 |work=[[Associated Press]] |date=30 September 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261009061837/https://apnews.com/article/a71ea8173678705fb1895539b6e4eb24 |archive-date=2026-10-09 |url-status=live }}</ref> Reports from the incident said that Machchhar, despite his injuries, helped regain access to the cockpit after the confrontation. Passengers and crew members then helped restrain the other pilot. The sequence of events inside the cockpit was not immediately established in full.<ref name="jpost">{{cite news |last=Zanger-Shamir |first=Maya |title=Flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar reportedly aided rescue efforts while wounded |url=https://www.jpost.com/international/article-910230 |work=[[The Jerusalem Post]] |date=30 September 2026 |access-date=30 September 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260930202623/https://www.jpost.com/international/article-910230 |archive-date=2026-09-30 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="cnn">{{cite news |title=Flydubai latest: Hero passenger says he put attacker in a chokehold after cockpit struggle |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2026/09/30/world/live-news/dubai-israel-plane-flydubai-intl |work=[[CNN]] |date=30 September 2026 |access-date=30 September 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260930113117/https://edition.cnn.com/2026/09/30/world/live-news/dubai-israel-plane-flydubai-intl |archive-date=2026-09-30 |url-status=live }}</ref>

In a phone call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Machchhar described how he opened the cockpit door despite his injuries:
{{QT
| quote = I had suffered so many injuries that I had collapsed. At that time, I could feel that the aircraft was going down. I knew this was the last push, that the door was right there. I was being hit even then, but I just opened the door and everyone came in. In that moment, I was fighting for my life. But there was a moment then when I realised that if I didn't do something … I had fallen down, I had so many injuries but I thought then if I don't get up … I had been flying for 17 years, I have been captain for the last 11 years. With my eyes closed, I know what is happening in the plane. I had fallen but I realised, understood, that the aircraft was going down. I thought, 'Smit, you need to do something, you need to give one last push. The door is just there.' I was in a lot of pain but I just opened it and the others came in. I was telling everyone that I was doing it to save my own life, but I also knew that I could not let the others die either. Everyone else had as much of a role in this as well.
| speaker = Captain Smit Machchhar
| date = 2 October 2026
| source=<ref>{{cite news |title=Flydubai pilot recounts cockpit stabbing in call with Indian PM Modi |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/10/2/flydubai-pilot-recounts-cockpit-stabbing-in-call-with-indian-pm-modi |work=[[Al Jazeera]] |date=2 October 2026 |access-date=4 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261002230503/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/10/2/flydubai-pilot-recounts-cockpit-stabbing-in-call-with-indian-pm-modi |archive-date=2026-10-02 |url-status=live }}</ref>
}}

A US Senator and FAA commercial pilot, Tim Sheehy, told Fox News that Machchhar may have used the aircraft's transponder to alert air traffic controllers while fighting off the co-pilot, effectively sending an emergency signal.<ref name="N18squawk">{{cite news |title=The Squawk Code: Under Attack, How Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar Sent Secret SOS To ATC |url=https://www.news18.com/amp/world/the-squawk-code-under-attack-how-flydubai-captain-smit-machchhar-sent-secret-sos-to-atc-ws-clr-10361874.html |work=[[News18]] |date=1 October 2026 |access-date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261002003416/https://www.news18.com/amp/world/the-squawk-code-under-attack-how-flydubai-captain-smit-machchhar-sent-secret-sos-to-atc-ws-clr-10361874.html |archive-date=2026-10-02 |url-status=live }}</ref> According to an Israeli passenger's account, the attacker was trying to push the wounded pilot out of the cockpit to take control alone. Israeli passengers sitting near the front rushed toward the struggle. The men who could fly the plane had frozen, and the passenger had to shake them to get them to move to the front and take control.<ref name="JPostacct">{{cite news |title='We're in charge of the flight now': Passenger describes fight for flydubai cabin |url=http://fr.jpost.com/israel-news/article-910206 |work=[[The Jerusalem Post]] |date=30 September 2026 |access-date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261009061945/http://fr.jpost.com/israel-news/article-910206 |archive-date=2026-10-09 |url-status=live }}</ref>
An Israeli dentist on board treated the wounded pilot. The passenger said the pilot was gravely injured and credited the dentist with saving his life.<ref name="JPostacct" /> Passengers used charging cables to restrain the attacker.<ref name="JPostacct" /> Flydubai described the event as an incident that occurred while the aircraft was en route and said that the circumstances were subject to investigation.<ref name="BT"/>

Israeli officials subsequently said that they were investigating the possibility that the other pilot had deliberately attempted to crash the aircraft. An Israeli official initially told Reuters that the incident was not believed to be a conventional hijacking. The motive for the confrontation remained unclear in the initial investigation.<ref name="Reuters"/><ref name="TOI2">{{cite news |title=Flydubai flight scare: Was it a terror plot? What we know and don't know |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/flydubai-flight-scare-was-it-a-terror-plot-what-we-know-and-dont-know/amp_articleshow/134598874.cms |work=[[The Times of India]] |date=30 September 2026}}</ref> An initial investigation of the flight data raised a strong suspicion that one of the flight crew members attempted to commit suicide and crash the plane, according to Israeli media. The plane, which had about 180 Israeli citizens on board, made an extreme and dangerous dive from a cruising altitude of over 30,000 feet to about 15,000 feet at a tremendous speed that approached the speed of sound – close to 1,000 kilometres per hour. The data from the MAX 8 aircraft's monitoring and tracking systems also present an unusually intense picture. During the cruise phase, at an altitude of approximately 35,000 feet, a sudden and vertical descent was recorded at an unimaginable dive rate that peaked at approximately 30,976 feet per minute, alongside a ground speed that exceeded 500 knots- approximately 930 kilometres per hour. During those critical seconds, the engines and rudders were pushed into action, which meant "deliberately crashing the plane into the ground". The report added that the second pilot recognised the attempt to commit suicide-murder, jumped on his cabin mate and began a physical struggle for control of the stick and rudders. It was then that he sent distress signals 7700 and 7500.<ref name="Weekdive" /> The flight diverted to [[Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Airport]] in Tabuk. Both pilots were hospitalised in Saudi Arabia, and Machchhar underwent surgery for his injuries. The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia said that he was receiving treatment in Tabuk and was in stable condition.<ref name="i24"/>

On 3 October 2026, the UAE Attorney General, Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, announced that the investigation had revealed that al-Hammami had "begun to carry out a terrorist act" and had attacked the captain with the cockpit's emergency crash axe.<ref name="RTBF"/><ref name="NYTterror"/> The UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) cautioned against speculation and confirmed that the investigation was continuing in coordination with regional and international authorities.<ref name="GCAA">{{cite news |title=UAE authorities caution against speculation on Flydubai incident as investigation continues; Captain Smit's heroics win more praise |url=https://newsonair.gov.in/uae-authorities-caution-against-speculation-on-flydubai-incident-as-investigation-continues-captain-smits-heroics-win-more-praise/ |work=News On AIR |date=3 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261004115427/https://newsonair.gov.in/uae-authorities-caution-against-speculation-on-flydubai-incident-as-investigation-continues-captain-smits-heroics-win-more-praise/ |archive-date=2026-10-04 |url-status=live }}</ref> Flydubai temporarily suspended its operations to Tel Aviv at the request of the authorities while the investigation continued.<ref name="GCAA"/> The co-pilot was extradited from Saudi Arabia to the UAE to face a terrorism investigation.<ref name="RTBF"/>

Passengers were later flown to Israel on a replacement Flydubai aircraft.<ref name="kan">{{cite news |last=Blumenthal |first=Itay |title=אחרי שעות מורטות עצבים: נוסעי "פליי דובאי" שבו ארצה |url=https://www.kan.org.il/content/kan-news/defense/1104562/ |work=Kan News |language=he |date=30 September 2026}}</ref> Passengers described the ordeal as "very terrifying". One passenger said for a moment he felt like he was "not among the living".<ref name="Inquirer">{{cite news |title=Like a 'rollercoaster': passengers describe harrowing flydubai flight |url=https://globalnation.inquirer.net/340096/like-a-rollercoaster-passengers-describe-harrowing-flydubai-flight/amp |work=[[Philippine Daily Inquirer]] |date=1 October 2026 |access-date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261009062112/https://globalnation.inquirer.net/340096/like-a-rollercoaster-passengers-describe-harrowing-flydubai-flight/amp |archive-date=2026-10-09 |url-status=live }}</ref> Israeli Prime Minister [[Benjamin Netanyahu]] subsequently described Machchhar as a "true hero" and said that he had saved 174 lives. The comments were made while the circumstances of the incident were still under investigation.<ref name="bbc">{{cite news |title='Hero' pilot stabbed by other pilot on Israel-bound plane, Israeli PM says |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cqgmrm7xd8wyo |work=[[BBC News]] |date=30 September 2026 |access-date=30 September 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260930205934/https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cqgmrm7xd8wyo |archive-date=2026-09-30 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="cnn"/>

The aircraft carried more than 170 passengers and crew members. All passengers and crew were accounted for after the aircraft landed in Tabuk.<ref name="Reuters"/><ref name="AP"/>

===Medical treatment===

After his medical treatment in Saudi Arabia, he was taken by [[air medical services]] to the [[United Arab Emirates]] for further treatment.<ref name="NBCmedical">{{citation|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/world/middle-east/smit-machchhar-pilot-hero-averting-crash-israel-plane-rcna600874|access-date=1 October 2026|date=1 October 2026|work=[[NBC News]]|title=What we know about the pilot hailed as a hero for averting crash of Israel-bound plane - Captain Smit Machchhar was severely injured by his fellow pilot but managed to open the cockpit door, an action credited with saving the lives of everyone on board.|first=Mithil|last=Aggarwal}}</ref><ref name="NYT"/> Emergency doctors discovered that he had suffered a [[depressed skull fracture]] from the [[crash axe]] attack to the back of the head, and required surgery.<ref name="OpenMag">{{citation|work=Open Magazine|access-date=6 October 2026|url=https://openthemagazine.com/world/smit-machchhar-skull-fracture-what-happened-to-the-flydubai-hero-pilot-right-after-cockpit-attack|title=Smit Machchhar skull fracture: What happened to the flydubai hero pilot right after cockpit attack?|date=6 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261006115734/https://openthemagazine.com/world/smit-machchhar-skull-fracture-what-happened-to-the-flydubai-hero-pilot-right-after-cockpit-attack|archive-date=2026-10-06|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="NDTVskull">{{citation|url=https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/flydubai-hero-pilot-smit-machchhar-suffered-fractured-skull-underwent-emergency-surgery-in-saudi-12144457|access-date=6 October 2026|date=6 October 2026|work=[[NDTV]]|title=flydubai Hero Pilot's Skull Fractured In Attack, Undergoes Emergency Surgery In Saudi|first=Vishnu|last=Som|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261006074213/https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/flydubai-hero-pilot-smit-machchhar-suffered-fractured-skull-underwent-emergency-surgery-in-saudi-12144457|archive-date=2026-10-06|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="WeekSkull">{{citation|url=https://www.theweek.in/news/health/2026/10/06/flydubai-indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-heroism-skull-fracture-surgery-recovery-lifelong-health-challenges.html|access-date=6 October 2026|date=6 October 2026|work=The Week|title=flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar suffered a skull fracture: How long does it take to recover after surgery?|first=Anuja Susan|last=Varghese|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261006120058/https://www.theweek.in/news/health/2026/10/06/flydubai-indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-heroism-skull-fracture-surgery-recovery-lifelong-health-challenges.html|archive-date=2026-10-06|url-status=live}}</ref> He was visited there by the Ambassador of India, and was reunited with his family who flew from India to Dubai.<ref name="NYT"/><ref name="NBCmedical"/>

Machchhar told Prime Minister Modi that he recited the [[Hinduism|Hindu]] devotional hymn, ''[[Hanuman Chalisa]]'', while he was being attacked by his co-pilot, Hamam al-Hammami.<ref name="NDTVHanuman">{{citation | last=Nath | first=Sanstuti | title='Recited Hanuman Chalisa For Courage," flydubai Hero Pilot Tells PM Modi | work=[[NDTV]]| date=2 October 2026 | url=https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/recited-hanuman-chalisa-for-courage-flydubai-hero-pilot-tells-pm-modi-12129120 | access-date=4 October 2026| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261002095953/https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/recited-hanuman-chalisa-for-courage-flydubai-hero-pilot-tells-pm-modi-12129120 | archive-date=2026-10-02 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="TOIHanuman">{{citation|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/i-was-reciting-hanuman-chalisa-flydubai-hero-captain-smit-machchhar-tells-pm-modi-about-cockpit-ordeal/articleshow/134633718.cms|access-date=5 October 2026|date=2 October 2026|work=[[The Times of India]]|title='I was reciting Hanuman Chalisa': flydubai 'hero' Captain Smit Machchhar tells PM Modi about cockpit ordeal|first=Priyanka|last=Mukherjee|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261002070848/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/i-was-reciting-hanuman-chalisa-flydubai-hero-captain-smit-machchhar-tells-pm-modi-about-cockpit-ordeal/articleshow/134633718.cms|archive-date=2026-10-02|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="WIONHanuman">{{citation|url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-capt-smit-machchhar-chanted-hanuman-chalisa-during-flydubai-attack-was-fighting-for-my-life-1790942075313|access-date=5 October 2026|work=[[WION]]|date=2 October 2026|title=Indian Capt Smit Machchhar 'chanted Hanuman Chalisa' during Flydubai attack: 'Was fighting for my life'|first=Prajvi |last=Mathur|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261002125728/https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-capt-smit-machchhar-chanted-hanuman-chalisa-during-flydubai-attack-was-fighting-for-my-life-1790942075313|archive-date=2026-10-02|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Aftermath and reactions==

Machchhar's actions drew widespread praise from leaders and officials. [[Prime Minister of India|Indian Prime Minister]] [[Narendra Modi]] called Machchhar a "HERO," stating: "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."<ref name="N18modi">{{cite news |title='India Is Proud Of Captain Machchhar': PM Modi Hails 'Hero' Indian Pilot Who Foiled Flydubai Attack |url=https://www.news18.com/india/india-is-proud-of-captain-machchhar-pm-modi-hails-hero-indian-pilot-who-foiled-flydubai-attack-10361896.html |work=[[News18]] |date=1 October 2026 |access-date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261009062304/https://www.news18.com/india/india-is-proud-of-captain-machchhar-pm-modi-hails-hero-indian-pilot-who-foiled-flydubai-attack-10361896.html |archive-date=2026-10-09 |url-status=live }}</ref> Modi also spoke to Machchhar's wife and parents, commending his bravery and assuring the family that Indian missions were coordinating with local authorities to support them.<ref name="DNAmodi">{{cite news |title=PM Modi speaks to Smit Machchar's wife, parents; knows about family of pilot who averted second 9/11 attack |url=https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-pm-modi-speaks-to-smit-machchar-s-wife-parents-knows-about-family-of-pilot-who-averted-second-911-attack-3221505 |work=[[DNA India]] |date=1 October 2026 |access-date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261002160110/https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-pm-modi-speaks-to-smit-machchar-s-wife-parents-knows-about-family-of-pilot-who-averted-second-911-attack-3221505 |archive-date=2026-10-02 |url-status=live }}</ref> In a video call with PM Modi, Machchhar recounted his experience, stating he made "one last push" to open the cockpit door after being attacked, realizing that staying down meant certain death.<ref name="ABC">{{cite news |title='It breaks you': Friend of stabbed pilot speaks out |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-10-03/captain-smit-machchhar-friend-pilot-tells-of-shock-and-relief/107223014 |work=ABC News |date=3 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261002233428/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-10-03/captain-smit-machchhar-friend-pilot-tells-of-shock-and-relief/107223014 |archive-date=2026-10-02 |url-status=live }}</ref>

[[Prime Minister of Israel|Israeli Prime Minister]] [[Benjamin Netanyahu]] hailed Machchhar as a "true hero," saying he "saved the lives of 174 people" and prevented "a catastrophic mid-air disaster."<ref name="bbc" /> Netanyahu added: "Despite being stabbed and seriously injured, he fought back, resisted, opened the cockpit door, and enabled passengers and crew to overpower the attacker."<ref name="bbc" />

[[File:PM Modi calls Captain Smit Machchhar, wishes him a speedy recovery.webm|thumb|[[Prime Minister of India]] [[Narendra Modi]] publicly released video of a phone call reach out to Smit Machchhar as he recovered in hospital in the [[United Arab Emirates]].]]

[[President of the United States|U.S. President]] [[Donald Trump]] also hailed Machchhar as a hero for fighting off the knife attack and calling for help to foil the bid to crash the aircraft.<ref name="N18trump">{{cite news |title='Was In A Very Bad Shape But Still Had Sense': Trump Calls Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar A 'Hero' After Flydubai Incident |url=https://www.news18.com/world/was-in-a-very-bad-shape-but-still-had-sense-trump-calls-indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-a-hero-after-flydubai-incident-10361948.html |work=[[News18]] |date=1 October 2026 |access-date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261009062401/https://www.news18.com/world/was-in-a-very-bad-shape-but-still-had-sense-trump-calls-indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-a-hero-after-flydubai-incident-10361948.html |archive-date=2026-10-09 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Israeli President [[Isaac Herzog]] thanked Captain Machchhar, saying: "To Captain Smith Machchhar - thank you from the bottom of my heart for the bravery, determination, and actions that saved many lives. I wish you a full recovery and strong health. The State of Israel extends immense gratitude to you."<ref name="Lokmatprez">{{cite news |title=Israeli Prez thanks Capt Smit Machchhar; recommends 4 civilians for heroism award |url=https://www.lokmattimes.com/international/israeli-prez-thanks-capt-smit-machchhar-recommends-4-civilians-for-heroism-award/amp/ |work=[[Lokmat Times]] |date=1 October 2026 |access-date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261009062421/https://www.lokmattimes.com/international/israeli-prez-thanks-capt-smit-machchhar-recommends-4-civilians-for-heroism-award/amp/ |archive-date=2026-10-09 |url-status=live }}</ref> Herzog also announced his intention to recommend the President's Medal for Civilian Bravery for four Israeli passengers who displayed "extraordinary courage" during the incident.<ref name="Lokmatprez2">{{cite news |title=Israel President Herzog thanks Capt Machchhar, awards bravery medals to Israeli's who aided rescue effort on flydubai flight |url=https://www.lokmattimes.com/international/israel-president-herzog-thanks-capt-machchhar-awards-bravery-medals-to-israelis-who-aided-rescue-effort-on-flydubai-flight/amp/ |work=[[Lokmat Times]] |date=1 October 2026 |access-date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261009062529/https://www.lokmattimes.com/international/israel-president-herzog-thanks-capt-machchhar-awards-bravery-medals-to-israelis-who-aided-rescue-effort-on-flydubai-flight/amp/ |archive-date=2026-10-09 |url-status=live }}</ref>

SpiceJet CEO Ajay Singh praised Machchhar, saying the airline was "incredibly proud" of him and that he had done his job in an "exemplary and brave manner."<ref name="bbc" /> SpiceJet issued a statement calling Machchhar a "hero" who had saved "countless lives."<ref name="bbc" />

The Indian Embassy in Riyadh said it was closely monitoring Machchhar's health and was in touch with his family and Saudi authorities to extend all possible assistance.<ref name="AP"/> After receiving initial treatment in Tabuk, Machchhar was shifted to Abu Dhabi for continued medical attention and recovery.<ref name="MEA">{{cite news |title=MEA Closely Monitoring Health Condition of Captain Smit Machchhar |url=https://newsonair.gov.in/mea-closely-monitoring-health-condition-of-captain-smit-machchhar/ |work=News On AIR |date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261002104726/https://newsonair.gov.in/mea-closely-monitoring-health-condition-of-captain-smit-machchhar/ |archive-date=2026-10-02 |url-status=live }}</ref> India's Ambassador to the UAE, Dr Deepak Mittal, met Machchhar and his family in Abu Dhabi and reported that the pilot was in "good spirits," speaking openly, smiling, and laughing.<ref name="Amb">{{cite news |title=Captain Smit Machchhar in UAE; recovering well, says Indian Ambassador in Abu Dhabi |url=https://newsonair.gov.in/captain-smit-machchhar-in-uae-recovering-well-says-indian-ambassador-in-abu-dhabi/ |work=News On AIR |date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261003142300/https://newsonair.gov.in/captain-smit-machchhar-in-uae-recovering-well-says-indian-ambassador-in-abu-dhabi/ |archive-date=2026-10-03 |url-status=live }}</ref>

The [[House of Maktoum|Crown Prince of Dubai]] [[Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum]] visited Machchhar while in hospital in his country.<ref name="CrownET">{{citation|url=https://m.economictimes.com/news/international/uae/flydubai-incident-dubai-crown-prince-praises-indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-after-mid-air-cockpit-attack/amp_articleshow/134659833.cms|access-date=3 October 2026|date=3 October 2026|work=[[The Economic Times]]|title=Flydubai incident: Dubai Crown Prince praises Indian pilot Smit Machchhar after mid-air cockpit attack|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261003130755/https://m.economictimes.com/news/international/uae/flydubai-incident-dubai-crown-prince-praises-indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-after-mid-air-cockpit-attack/amp_articleshow/134659833.cms|archive-date=2026-10-03|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="CrownIT">{{citation|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/amp/world/story/indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-praised-by-dubai-crown-prince-after-flydubai-cockpit-attack-ptag-3008873-2026-10-03|access-date=3 October 2026|date=3 October 2026|work=[[India Today]]|title=Dubai Crown Prince praises Indian pilot after cockpit attack on Israel flight|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261003133552/https://www.indiatoday.in/amp/world/story/indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-praised-by-dubai-crown-prince-after-flydubai-cockpit-attack-ptag-3008873-2026-10-03|archive-date=2026-10-03|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="CrownNDTV">{{citation|access-date=3 October 2026|date=3 October 2026|url=https://www.ndtvprofit.com/world/flydubai-pilot-smit-machchhar-praised-by-uae-crown-prince-after-fz1073-cockpit-attack-12134511|work=[[NDTV]]|title=Flydubai Pilot Smit Machchhar Praised By UAE Crown Prince After FZ1073 Cockpit Attack|first=Noor |last=Ul Haq}}</ref> He said he represented the governmental leadership of the country in praising Machchhar for his actions, and stated he felt pride at having Machchhar serving as a pilot within his country.<ref name="CrownET"/><ref name="CrownIT"/><ref name="CrownNDTV"/> The Crown Prince said Machchhar represented the values of the UAE in emphasising humanity, peace, and kindness.<ref name="CrownET"/><ref name="CrownNDTV"/>

Machchhar had a call from his hospital bed with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu on 3 October 2026.<ref name="GaveEverything">{{citation|url=https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-910475|access-date=4 October 2026|date=3 October 2026|work=[[The Jerusalem Post]]|title='I gave everything that I had': Flydubai captain tells Netanyahu about co-pilot's hijacking attempt|first=Aaron|last=Glick}}</ref><ref name="CNNNetanyahu">{{citation|url=https://www.cnn.com/2026/10/03/world/video/flydubai-pilot-netanyahu-smit-machchhar-latam-intl|access-date=4 October 2026|date=3 October 2026|work=[[CNN]]|title=Flydubai hero pilot tells Netanyahu new details about cockpit attack}}</ref><ref name="LazarCall">{{citation|url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/flydubai-captain-says-copilot-asked-to-pray-then-struck-him-from-behind-describes-exactly-how-he-opened-cockpit-door/|work=[[The Times of Israel]]|access-date=4 October 2026|title=Flydubai captain says copilot asked to pray, then struck him from behind; describes exactly how he opened cockpit door|first=Lazar|last=Berman|date=4 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261004034241/https://www.timesofisrael.com/flydubai-captain-says-copilot-asked-to-pray-then-struck-him-from-behind-describes-exactly-how-he-opened-cockpit-door/|archive-date=2026-10-04|url-status=live}}</ref> He told the Prime Minister new information about how he was attacked on the plane. He said Hamam al-Hammami had gotten up two hours into the flight to pray, which Machchhar regarded as a routine activity. Machchhar then felt himself being struck in the back of the head, and began to lose his ability of vision from the assault. He said his flight attendants in his crew were trying to input the door code to enter the cockpit during the assault, but the assailant was not allowing them to utilize the entry code to gain access to help the captain.<ref name="GaveEverything"/><ref name="CNNNetanyahu"/><ref name="LazarCall"/>

[[List of ambassadors of India to the United Arab Emirates|Indian Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates]], Deepak Mittal, released a statement that the [[Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha]] (BAPS), [[Hindu denomination]] within the [[Swaminarayan Sampradaya]], held a special prayer session for Machchhar's healing and recovery from his injuries.<ref name="Continuetoflow">{{citation|url=https://m.economictimes.com/news/india/prayers-continue-to-flow-in-indian-envoy-updates-on-capt-machchhars-health-after-baps-abu-dhabi-tribute/amp_articleshow/134678881.cms|access-date=5 October 2026|date=4 October 2026|work=[[The Economic Times]]|title="Prayers continue to flow in": Indian envoy updates on Capt Machchhar's health after BAPS Abu Dhabi tribute}}</ref><ref name="GulfNewsBAPS">{{citation|url=https://gulfnews.com/uae/abu-dhabis-baps-hindu-mandir-prays-for-flydubai-hero-pilot-captain-smit-machchhar-1.500698149|access-date=5 October 2026|date=4 October 2026|title=Abu Dhabi's BAPS Hindu Mandir prays for flydubai hero pilot Captain Smit Machchhar|first=Sajila |last=Saseendran|work=Gulf News|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261004165058/https://gulfnews.com/uae/abu-dhabis-baps-hindu-mandir-prays-for-flydubai-hero-pilot-captain-smit-machchhar-1.500698149|archive-date=2026-10-04|url-status=live}}</ref> The group consisted of [[expatriate]] devotees and [[swami]]s from India that were living in Abu Dhabi.<ref name="Continuetoflow"/><ref name="GulfNewsBAPS"/>

==Personal life==

Machchhar's parents are Bhupendra Machchhar and Geeta Machchhar.<ref>{{citation|url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modis-big-salute-to-flydubai-pilot-smit-machchhars-parents-praise-for-his-wife-12129388|access-date=3 October 2026|work=[[NDTV]]|title=PM Modi's Big "Salute" To Smit Machchhar's Parents, Praise For His Wife - During the phone call, PM Modi told Captain Machchhar that he has made 140 crore Indians proud with his courage.|date=2 October 2026|first=Ajay|last=Kumar|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261003141540/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modis-big-salute-to-flydubai-pilot-smit-machchhars-parents-praise-for-his-wife-12129388|archive-date=2026-10-03|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{citation|url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/captain-smit-machchhars-father-to-ndtv-flying-is-like-his-wife-12129994|access-date=3 October 2026|work=[[NDTV]]|title='He Got Some Inner Strength': Captain Smit Machchhar's Father On His Heroics - The hero pilot, who saved 174 flydubai passengers from almost certain death by fighting off an axe attack by his co-pilot inside the cockpit, is recovering in a hospital in Abu Dhabi.|date=2 October 2026|first=Shiv|last=Aroor}}</ref><ref>{{citation|url=https://www.thedailyjagran.com/india/news/immensely-proud-of-his-actions-smit-machchhar-father-bhupendra-shares-his-feelings-after-flydubai-pilot-became-global-hero-10331342|access-date=3 October 2026|work=[[The Daily Jagran]]|title='Immensely Proud Of His Actions': Smit Machchhar's Father Shares His Feelings After Son Thwarted Flydubai Plane Crash Attempt - Bhupendra Machchhar expressed immense pride in his son, Captain Smit Machchhar, who saved 180 lives during a Flydubai crash scare. Despite injuries sustained while preventing the co-pilot from crashing the plane, Smit is determined to return to flying.|date=2 October 2026|first=Raju|last=Kumar|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261002123043/https://www.thedailyjagran.com/india/news/immensely-proud-of-his-actions-smit-machchhar-father-bhupendra-shares-his-feelings-after-flydubai-pilot-became-global-hero-10331342|archive-date=2026-10-02|url-status=live}}</ref> Within the Gujarati ethnicity, his family comes from the [[Brahmakshatriya]] community.<ref name=mukul>{{citation|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/captain-smit-machchhar-surname-meaning-gujarati-origins-flydubai-hero-3007983-2026-10-02|work=[[India Today]]|access-date=5 October 2026|date=2 October 2026|title=Captain Smit Machchhar's surname means mosquito, and has a fascinating story|first=Sushim|last=Mukul|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261002090912/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/captain-smit-machchhar-surname-meaning-gujarati-origins-flydubai-hero-3007983-2026-10-02|archive-date=2026-10-02|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=mondal>{{citation|url=https://theprint.in/feature/after-smit-machchhars-heroic-act-indians-are-curious-about-his-surname/3059071/|work=[[ThePrint]]|access-date=5 October 2026|title=After Smit Machchhar’s heroic act, Indians are curious about his surname - In Gujarat, the surnames are often used in word play. The surname Machchhar may have been given to someone jokingly.|first=Manisha|last=Mondal|date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261002141530/https://theprint.in/feature/after-smit-machchhars-heroic-act-indians-are-curious-about-his-surname/3059071/|archive-date=2026-10-02|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=chetna>{{citation|first=Chetna|last=Shree|url=https://www.thedailyjagran.com/india/news/flydubai-cockpit-attack-what-hero-indian-pilot-captain-smit-machchhars-surname-means-10331373|work=[[The Daily Jagran]]|access-date=5 October 2026|date=2 October 2026|title=Flydubai Cockpit Attack: What 'Hero' Indian Pilot Captain Smit Machchhar's Surname Means - Captain Smit Machchhar is hailed as a hero for saving a Flydubai flight after his co-pilot attacked him and attempted to crash the aircraft. His surname "Machchhar" has sparked curiosity, leading to discussions about its Gujarati origins and potential meaning.}}</ref> Machchhars family dates back to the Halari branch of the Gujarati Brahmakshatriya, with ties to both the Nagar Brahmins and Kshatriyas.<ref name=mukul/><ref name=mondal/><ref name=chetna/> Within the state of Gujarat, the Nagar Brahmin peoples had significant experience within the fields of teaching and management.<ref name=mukul/><ref name=mondal/><ref name=chetna/> Machchhar has family in Surat, Gujarat, but he is from Ghatkopar, Mumbai. His family owns and operates a conventional textile company. He has a brother who is also a pilot and recently joined flydubai.<ref name="DNAfamily">{{cite news |title=PM Modi speaks to Smit Machchar's wife, parents; knows about family of pilot who averted second 9/11 attack |url=https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-pm-modi-speaks-to-smit-machchar-s-wife-parents-knows-about-family-of-pilot-who-averted-second-911-attack-3221505 |work=[[DNA India]] |date=1 October 2026 |access-date=1 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261002160110/https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-pm-modi-speaks-to-smit-machchar-s-wife-parents-knows-about-family-of-pilot-who-averted-second-911-attack-3221505 |archive-date=2026-10-02 |url-status=live }}</ref> He moved to Dubai with his family around two to three years ago.<ref name="ITfriend">{{cite news |title=Quick decision-maker, soft-spoken: Smit Machchhar's friend praises flydubai pilot |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/smit-machchhar-flydubai-pilot-cockpit-stabbing-attack-mumbai-friend-praise-3007083-2026-10-01 |work=[[India Today]] |date=1 October 2026 |access-date=1 October 2026}}</ref>

Machchhar lives in [[Dubai]] with his wife, Sonal Machchhar, and their two children.<ref name="TOIwife">{{citation|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/flydubai-pilot-smit-machchhars-wife-recalls-shock-didnt-have-the-mental-capacity/articleshow/134638267.cms|access-date=2 October 2026|date=2 October 2026|work=[[The Times of India]]|title=Flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar's wife recalls shock: 'Didn't have the mental capacity'}}</ref><ref name="WSJ"/><ref name="CNNprofile"/> His wife spoke about the incident, saying she was "very devastated" and did not have the "mental capacity" to react when she first heard the news.<ref name="ABPwife">{{cite news |title='Didn't Have Mental Capacity To React': Smit Machchhar's Wife On Mid-Air Attack |url=https://news.abplive.com/news/india/didnt-have-mental-capacity-to-react-smit-machchhars-wife-on-mid-air-attack-1779365 |work=[[ABP Live]] |date=2 October 2026 |access-date=6 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261009063127/https://news.abplive.com/news/india/didnt-have-mental-capacity-to-react-smit-machchhars-wife-on-mid-air-attack-1779365 |archive-date=2026-10-09 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Machchhar is known to keep his aviation career separate from his personal life. In his 2025 podcast interview, he said, "When I get out of the cockpit or the aircraft, I don't want the other guy to know that I'm a pilot. I don't want to discuss aviation... The kids are there. They want to play with you."<ref name="bbc" /> He has spoken about the importance of work-life balance and spending time with family.<ref name="bbc" /> He has also detailed challenges he faced in the air, including when a passenger went into early labour and the crew worked together to ensure the baby was born safely.<ref name="bbc" /> He credited senior pilots with teaching him how to face stressful situations.<ref name="bbc" />

A doctor-friend of Machchhar, Dr Jinit Shah, described him as a "tremendously talented person from the very beginning... an extremely pure-hearted person and soft-spoken. He is a fast decision-maker and that is why I think it helped him yesterday."<ref name="ITfriend" />

==Awards and honours==

For his actions on [[Flydubai Flight 1073]], the [[Government of Gujarat]] announced that Machchhar would receive the Vishisht Gujarat Garima Award.<ref name="HindustanProud">{{citation|access-date=3 October 2026|date=3 October 2026|title='Everyone is proud': Smit Machchhar's family lauds him after flydubai incident |work=[[Hindustan Times]]|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/everyone-is-proud-smit-machchhars-family-lauds-him-after-flydubai-incident-101791014414207.html}}</ref> The award was announced by [[Chief Minister of Gujarat]] [[Bhupendrabhai Patel]].<ref name="HindustanProud"/> Patel said the award recognised his bravery and calm demeanor under an emergency.<ref name="HindustanProud"/> The government also announced a cash reward of [[Indian rupee|₹]]25 lakh (2.5 million rupees) for the pilot.<ref name="RepublicGujarat">{{cite news |title=Gujarat To Honour Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar With 'Vishisht Gujarat Garima Award', Rs 25 Lakh Reward |url=https://www.republicworld.com/india/gujarat-to-honour-flydubai-captain-smit-machchhar-with-vishisht-gujarat-garima-award-rs-25-lakh-reward-2026-10-01-138061 |work=[[Republic World]] |date=1 October 2026 |access-date=6 October 2026}}</ref><ref name="News18Gujarat">{{cite news |title=Flydubai Scare: Captain Smit Machchhar To Get Gujarat's 'Visisht Gujarat Garima Award', CM Announces |url=https://www.news18.com/india/flydubai-scare-captain-smit-machchhar-to-get-gujarats-visisht-gujarat-garima-award-cm-announces-10363715.html |work=[[News18]] |date=1 October 2026 |access-date=6 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261009065635/https://www.news18.com/india/flydubai-scare-captain-smit-machchhar-to-get-gujarats-visisht-gujarat-garima-award-cm-announces-10363715.html |archive-date=2026-10-09 |url-status=live }}</ref>

The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) wrote to [[Prime Minister of India]] [[Narendra Modi]] in a letter from 2 October 2026, requesting Machchhar be given a National Bravery Award.<ref name="BraveryStatesman">{{citation|url=https://www.thestatesman.com/india/extraordinary-courage-pilot-writes-to-pmo-seeks-national-bravery-award-for-flydubai-pilot-smit-1503646112.html|access-date=2 October 2026|work=[[The Statesman (India)|The Statesman]]|title='Extraordinary courage': Pilot body writes to PMO, seeks national bravery award for Flydubai pilot Smit|date=2 October 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261002144904/https://www.thestatesman.com/india/extraordinary-courage-pilot-writes-to-pmo-seeks-national-bravery-award-for-flydubai-pilot-smit-1503646112.html|archive-date=2026-10-02|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="BraveryNewIndian">{{citation|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/india/2026/Oct/02/pilots-body-seeks-national-bravery-award-for-flydubai-captain-attacked-by-co-pilot-mid-flight|access-date=2 October 2026|work=[[The New Indian Express]]|date=2 October 2026|title=Pilots' body seeks National Bravery Award for flydubai captain attacked by co-pilot mid-flight}}</ref><ref name="BraveryHindustan">{{citation|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pilots-body-urges-pm-modi-to-give-flydubai-captain-smit-machchhar-a-bravery-award-for-saving-182-lives-101790938038445.html|access-date=2 October 2026|date=2 October 2026|title=Pilots' body urges PM Modi to give flydubai captain Smit Machchhar a bravery award for saving 182 lives|work=[[Hindustan Times]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261002111057/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pilots-body-urges-pm-modi-to-give-flydubai-captain-smit-machchhar-a-bravery-award-for-saving-182-lives-101790938038445.html|archive-date=2026-10-02|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[List of ambassadors of Israel to India|Israeli Ambassador to India]], [[Reuven Azar]], stated his country would give an honour to Machchhar for his actions saving the lives of those onboard his airplane.<ref name="Azar2">{{citation|url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/world/israel-to-honor-captain-smit-machchhar-for-his-bravery-after-attack-by-co-pilot-on-flydubai-flight-israeli-envoy-says-article-14042851.html|access-date=2 October 2026|date=1 October 2026|work=[[Moneycontrol.com]]|title=Israel to honour Captain Smit Machchhar for his bravery after attack by co-pilot on flydubai flight, Israeli envoy says|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261009065720/https://www.moneycontrol.com/world/israel-to-honor-captain-smit-machchhar-for-his-bravery-after-attack-by-co-pilot-on-flydubai-flight-israeli-envoy-says-article-14042851.html|archive-date=2026-10-09|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Azar3">{{citation|url=https://www.news18.com/amp/world/israel-will-never-forget-captain-smit-machchhar-ambassador-reuven-azar-says-pilot-will-be-honoured-ws-klrt-10364393.html|access-date=2 October 2026|work=News18|title='Israel Will Never Forget Captain Smit Machchhar': Ambassador Reuven Azar Says Pilot Will Be Honoured|date=2 October 2026}}</ref>

[[Member of Parliament (India)|Indian Member of Parliament]], [[Rajya Sabha]], and Sun Foundation Chairman [[Vikramjit Singh Sahney]], publicised an award on 3 October 2026 to Machchhar.<ref name="Aditi">{{citation|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/india/punjab-mp-vikram-sahney-announces-rs-25-lakh-bravery-award-for-captain-smit-machchhar/|work=[[The Tribune (India)|The Tribune]]|access-date=3 October 2026|date=3 October 2026|title=Punjab MP Vikram Sahney announces Rs 25 lakh bravery award for Captain Smit Machchhar|first=Aditi|last=Tandon}}</ref><ref name="NewsMill"/><ref name="Rajya">{{citation|url=https://www.babushahi.com/full-news.php?id=227697|work=Babushahi.com|date=3 October 2026|access-date=3 October 2026|title=Breaking: MP Vikram Sahney announces Rs 25 lakh Bravery Award for Captain Smit Machchhar}}</ref> Sahney declared a "Smit Machchhar Bravery Award" for Machchhar's courageous actions.<ref name="Rajya"/> The award came with a monetary prize of 25 [[lakh]] [[Indian rupee]]s.<ref name="Aditi"/><ref name="NewsMill"/><ref name="Rajya"/> Sahney wrote a separate letter to Prime Minister Modi, asking for Machchhar be given India's highest award for peacetime gallantry; the [[Ashoka Chakra Award]].<ref name="Aditi"/><ref name="NewsMill"/><ref name="Rajya"/>

Member of parliament in the [[Rajya Sabha]] from [[Maharashtra]], [[Milind Deora]], also called for him to receive the Ashoka Chakra Award.<ref name="ConsiderAshoka">{{citation|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/consider-for-ashoka-chakra-milind-deora-writes-to-pm-modi-seeking-honour-for-pilot-smit-machchhar/articleshow/134636265.cms|access-date=5 October 2026|date=2 October 2026|title='Consider for Ashoka Chakra': Milind Deora writes to PM Modi seeking honour for pilot Smit Machchhar|work=[[The Times of India]]|first=Aastha|last=Jha}}</ref><ref name="HighestCourage">{{citation|url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/flydubai-pilot-award-for-bravery-highest-courage-milind-deora-pilots-body-call-for-award-for-smit-machchhar-12130240|access-date=5 October 2026|date=2 October 2026|work=[[NDTV]]|title='Highest Courage': Milind Deora, Pilots Body Call For Award For Smit Machchhar}}</ref> Deora wrote a separate letter to the Prime Minister's office requesting Machchhar get the Ashoka Chakra recognition.<ref name="HighestCourage"/><ref name="ConsiderAshoka"/><ref name="HindustanAshoka">{{citation|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/milind-deora-writes-to-pm-modi-seeks-ashok-chakra-for-flydubai-captain-machchhar-101790947836192.html|access-date=5 October 2026|date=2 October 2026|work=[[Hindustan Times]]|title=Milind Deora writes to PM Modi, seeks Ashok Chakra for flydubai Captain Machchhar|first=Yogesh|last=Naik|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261002134140/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/milind-deora-writes-to-pm-modi-seeks-ashok-chakra-for-flydubai-captain-machchhar-101790947836192.html|archive-date=2026-10-02|url-status=live}}</ref>

MP [[Kartikeya Sharma]] serving as a Member of the upper house of the Indian Parliament from [[Haryana]] echoed the calls of his colleagues to grant Machchhar the Ashoka Chakra Award.<ref name="SharmaUNI">{{citation|access-date=6 October 2026|url=https://www.uniindia.com/north-india/honour-smit-rs-mp-requests-pm-ashok-chakra/203301|date=5 October 2026|work=United News of India|title=Rajya Sabha MP Kartikeya Sharma urges PM Modi to consider Ashoka Chakra for pilot Smit Machchhar|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261005163630/https://www.uniindia.com/north-india/honour-smit-rs-mp-requests-pm-ashok-chakra/203301|archive-date=2026-10-05|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="SharmaDG">{{citation|url=https://www.magzter.com/stories/newspaper/The-Daily-Guardian/MP-KARTIKEYA-SHARMA-SEEKS-ASHOKA-CHAKRA-FOR-INDIAN-PILOT-MACHCHHAR|work=The Daily Guardian|access-date=6 October 2026|date=6 October 2026|title=MP Kartikeya Sharma seeks Ashoka Chakra for Indian pilot Machchhar}}</ref> Sharma wrote a letter to Prime Minister Modi that was released, and also issued a press release, calling on the Indian government to grant Machchhar the award.<ref name="SharmaUNI"/><ref name="SharmaDG"/>

Alongside ministers of parliament, the student body organization, [[Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad]] (ABVP), echoed the politicians' requests for Machchhar to receive the Ashoka Chakra Award.<ref name="ABVPExpress">{{citation|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/smit-machchhar-ashoka-chakra-demand-abvp-10905554/|access-date=5 October 2026|date=3 October 2026|title=ABVP seeks Ashoka Chakra for Captain Smit Machchhar|work=[[The Indian Express]]}}</ref> The District Bar Association of [[Gurugram]] sent a letter to their local government administration requesting Machchhar be granted the Ashoka Chakra Award.<ref name="Gurugram">{{citation|url=https://thepublicworld.com/archives/121022|access-date=6 October 2026|date=6 October 2026|title=Gurugram District Bar Association Seeks Ashoka Chakra for Capt Smit Machchhar|work=The Public World|first=Suvash Chandra|last=Choudhary|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261006223357/https://thepublicworld.com/archives/121022|archive-date=2026-10-06|url-status=live}}</ref> The [[Tehsildar]] officer for Gurugram formally received the letter and forwarded it along to the office of the Prime Minister of India.<ref name="Gurugram"/>

Abraham Mathai, founder of the [[non-governmental organization]] Harmony Foundation in Mumbai, nominated Machchhar for their Mother Teresa Award.<ref name="gonsalves"/><ref name="mumbaingo"/><ref name="midday"/> The organization said it was going to give Machchhar one of their Mother Teresa Memorial Awards for Social Justice because his courage gave pride to Indian people and the planet.<ref name="gonsalves"/><ref name="mumbaingo"/>

[[Mankind Pharma]], an Indian [[Multinational corporation|multinational]] [[pharmaceutical]] and [[healthcare]] company headquartered in [[Delhi]], announced an award to Machchhar and his family, for preventing a disaster on his airplane, of 1 [[crore]] [[Indian rupee]]s.<ref name="Sagrika">{{citation|url=https://theprint.in/feature/mankind-pharma-captain-smit-machchhar-1-crore-extraordinary-courage/3060475/|access-date=5 October 2026|date=2 October 2026|work=The Print|title=Mankind Pharma honours Captain Smit Machchhar with Rs 1 crore for 'extraordinary courage'|first=Sagrika|last=Kissu}}</ref><ref name="TimesMankind">{{citation|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/mankind-pharma-to-give-rs-1-crore-to-flydubai-hero-capt-smit-machchhar-family-after-mid-air-crisis/articleshow/134653708.cms|access-date=5 October 2026|date=3 October 2026|title=Mankind Pharma to give Rs 1 crore to Flydubai hero Capt Smit Machchhar, family|work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref><ref name="BusinessMankind">{{citation|url=https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/no-amount-of-money-can-ever-mankind-pharma-honours-flydubai-pilot-smit-machchhar-with-rs1-crore-559291-2026-10-03|access-date=5 October 2026|date=3 October 2026|work=Business Today|title='No amount of money can ever...': Mankind Pharma honours flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar with ₹1 crore}}</ref>

[[B. S. Yediyurappa]], Indian politician and former [[Chief Minister of Karnataka]], stated he would campaign for Machchhar to receive the [[Bharat Ratna]] &mdash; the highest [[Indian honours system|civilian award]] of the [[Republic of India]].<ref name="BharatDeccan">{{citation|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bjp-jd-s-will-jointly-contest-all-upcoming-polls-bsy-4171562|access-date=6 October 2026|date=5 October 2026|title=BJP-JD(S) will jointly contest all upcoming polls: BSY|work=Deccan Herald}}</ref><ref name="Karnataka">{{citation|url=https://newskarnataka.com/kalaburagi/yediyurappa-seeks-bharat-ratna-for-captain-smit-machchhar/05102026/|access-date=6 October 2026|date=5 October 2026|title=Yediyurappa seeks Bharat Ratna for Captain Smit Machchhar|work=News Karnataka|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261005192355/https://newskarnataka.com/kalaburagi/yediyurappa-seeks-bharat-ratna-for-captain-smit-machchhar/05102026/|archive-date=2026-10-05|url-status=live}}</ref> He convened a press conference in [[Kalaburagi]], where he publicly called on the [[President of India]] [[Droupadi Murmu]] and the Prime Minister of India to grant Machchhar the Bharat Ratna Award.<ref name="BharatDeccan"/><ref name="Karnataka"/>

===Israel===

[[Prime Minister of Israel]] [[Benjamin Netanyahu]] extended an invitation to both Machchhar, along with Indian Prime Minister Modi, to hold a triumphant torch during the [[Independence Day (Israel)|Israel Independence Day]] for 11-12 May 2027.<ref name="InvitePM">{{citation|url=https://newsonair.gov.in/israeli-pm-netanyahu-invites-pm-modi-and-captain-smit-machchhar-to-israels-independence-day-ceremony/|access-date=4 October 2026|date=4 October 2026|title=Israeli PM Netanyahu Invites PM Modi And Captain Smit Machchhar To Israel's Independence Day Ceremony|work=News on AIR}}</ref><ref name="HeroofIndia">{{citation|url=https://www.ndtv.com/video/hero-of-india-israel-the-world-netanyahu-salutes-captain-smit-machchhar-1169090|work=[[NDTV]]|access-date=4 October 2026|date=4 October 2026|title='Hero Of India, Israel & The World': Netanyahu Salutes Captain Smit Machchhar}}</ref><ref name="Braine">{{citation|work=[[New York Daily News]]|url=https://www.nydailynews.com/2026/10/04/flydubai-stabbing-attack-occurred-after-co-pilot-asked-to-pray/|access-date=4 October 2026|date=4 October 2026|first=Theresa|last=Braine|title=FlyDubai stabbing attack from co-pilot came after he asked to pray: captain}}</ref> Netanyahu explained the duty of holding a light in celebration during Israel's Independence Day is usually a task reserved only for citizens of Israel. He emphasized to Machchhar that the people of Israel would make an exception for him, and adopt and welcome him into the celebratory process. Netanyahu told Machchhar that the act of lighting a flame for the country on its Independence Day was the highest honour they could bestow upon him.<ref name="HeroicFlydubai">{{citation|url=https://www.thejc.com/news/world/heroic-flydubai-captain-who-was-attacked-with-axe-invited-to-israel-for-independence-day-ll933448|access-date=4 October 2026|date=4 October 2026|title=Heroic Flydubai captain 'who was attacked with axe' invited to Israel for Independence Day|first=Daniel|last=Ben-David|work=[[The Jewish Chronicle]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261004111547/https://www.thejc.com/news/world/heroic-flydubai-captain-who-was-attacked-with-axe-invited-to-israel-for-independence-day-ll933448|archive-date=2026-10-04|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="HTNetanyahu">{{citation|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/netanyahu-invites-pm-modi-flydubai-captain-smit-machchhar-to-light-israel-independence-day-flame-highest-honor-101791054708344.html|access-date=4 October 2026|date=4 October 2026|work=[[Hindustan Times]]|title=Netanyahu invites PM Modi, flydubai captain Smit Machchhar to light Israel Independence Day flame: 'Highest honor'|first=Sehjal |last=Gupta}}</ref>

[[Ben Gurion Airport|Ben Gurion International Airport]] in Israel planned to name a lounge in the building in honor of Machchhar.<ref name="Ojha">{{citation|url=https://inshorts.com/en/news/israeli-minister-proposes-to-name-lounge-at-airport-after-indian-pilot-smit-who-saved-lives--1790826911788|access-date=6 October 2026|work=[[Inshorts]]|title=Israeli minister proposes to name lounge at airport after Indian pilot Smit who saved lives |first=Bhuvnesh|last=Ojha|date=30 September 2026}}</ref> Politician [[Almog Cohen (politician)|Almog Cohen]] stated he would put forth a bill in the Israeli parliament, the [[Knesset]], to formally name the designated parlor area at the airport in Machchhar's name.<ref name="EasternLounge">{{citation|url=https://www.easterneye.biz/smit-machchhar-flydubai-fz1073-indian-pilot/|access-date=6 October 2026|work=Eastern Eye|title='The last moments of his energy': How Indian pilot Smit Machchhar saved flight FZ1073|first=Vivek|last=Mishra|date=1 October 2026}}</ref>

===United States===

The [[United States House of Representatives]] passed a resolution on 6 October 2026, honoring the actions of Machchhar.<ref name="CNBCResolution">{{citation|url=https://www.cnbctv18.com/world/us-lawmaker-introduces-house-resolution-honouring-indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-20006040.htm|access-date=6 October 2026|date=6 October 2026|title=US lawmaker introduces House resolution honouring Indian pilot Smit Machchhar|work=CNBCTV18}}</ref><ref name="TOIResolution">{{citation|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/us-house-passes-resolution-honouring-indian-flydubai-pilot-smit-machchhar-condemns-act-of-terrorism/articleshow/134743518.cms|access-date=6 October 2026|date=6 October 2026|work=[[The Times of India]]|title=US House passes resolution honouring Indian flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar, condemns 'act of terrorism'|first=Trisha|last=Mahajan|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261006151635/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/us-house-passes-resolution-honouring-indian-flydubai-pilot-smit-machchhar-condemns-act-of-terrorism/articleshow/134743518.cms|archive-date=2026-10-06|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="News18Resolution">{{citation|url=https://www.news18.com/amp/world/us-house-honours-indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-for-foiling-flydubai-terror-attack-10370121.html|access-date=6 October 2026|date=6 October 2026|title='Extraordinary Courage': US House Honours Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar For Foiling Flydubai Terror Attack|work=News18|first=Shuddhanta |last=Patra|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20261006234251/https://www.news18.com/amp/world/us-house-honours-indian-pilot-smit-machchhar-for-foiling-flydubai-terror-attack-10370121.html|archive-date=2026-10-06|url-status=live}}</ref> The resolution recognized Machchhar for high admirable bravery in safeguarding the lives of those aboard his aircraft. The House of Representatives also commended the roles of passengers, flight crew, and the off-duty pilots that came to assist during the attack.<ref name="CNBCResolution"/><ref name="TOIResolution"/><ref name="News18Resolution"/>

==See also==
* [[Pan Am Flight 73]]
** {{anl|Neerja Bhanot}}

==External links==
*{{citation|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuBRRM0UwUs|publisher=[[YouTube]]|first=Zalak|last=Mehta|title=Captain Smit Machchhar (The Indian Hero) Ep-2 of Bonafide Banter with CS Zalak Mehta|date=17 October 2025|work=Bonafide Banter|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260930152818/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuBRRM0UwUs|archive-date=2026-09-30|url-status=live}}
*{{citation|url=https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-interacts-with-captain-smit-machchhar/|title=PM Interacts with Captain Smit Machchhar|date=2 October 2026|work=[[Prime Minister of India]]|first=Narendra|last=Modi|authorlink=Narendra Modi|publisher=[[Government of India]]}}
*{{citation|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zJy-fdzzX0|date=2 October 2026|publisher=[[YouTube]]|work=PMO India|title=PM Modi calls Captain Smit Machchhar, wishes him a speedy recovery}}
*{{citation|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLPZ1NJav4o|date=3 October 2026|publisher=[[YouTube]]|title=PM Netanyahu talks to Captain Smit Machchhar, of the flight from Dubai|author=[[Government Press Office (Israel)|Government Press Office, Israel]]|work=IsraeliPM}}

==References==
{{Authority control}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Machchhar, Smit}}

{{reflist}}

[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Flydubai people]]
[[Category:SpiceJet people]]
[[Category:Indian aviators]]
[[Category:People from Mumbai]]
[[Category:Commercial aviators]]
[[Category:Survivors of aviation accidents or incidents]]
[[Category:Indian expatriates in the United Arab Emirates]]
[[Category:21st-century Indian people]]