Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian Flydubai pilot who was seriously injured during a cockpit attack on a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight, is being considered for national recognition after his actions helped bring the aircraft to safety.The Federation of Indian Pilots has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking an appropriate national bravery award for Machchhar, citing his courage, professional conduct and decision-making while injured during the September 30 emergency. The pilots’ body said he continued performing his responsibilities as pilot-in-command and helped ensure the aircraft was safely diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.The flight was carrying 174 passengers and eight crew members. Machchhar was attacked inside the cockpit by the first officer and sustained serious injuries. He subsequently spoke to Prime Minister Modi from hospital, recounting how his training and experience helped him respond during the crisis. Modi praised his presence of mind and courage.Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has already announced the Vishishtha Gujarat Garima Award for Machchhar. Calls for further national recognition have also emerged, including a request from Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora for the Ashoka Chakra.Watch LIVE for the latest on Captain Smit Machchhar’s recovery, the national award demand, political and public reactions, and the investigation into the Flydubai cockpit attack. n18oc_worldn18oc_breaking-news
Last Updated: October 03, 2026, 2:28 PM IST
Source link
[ad_3]
