Stabbed flydubai captain recovers in Abu Dhabi hospital, ambassador says he is stable
Indian pilot Smit Machchhar, injured in a cockpit stabbing on flydubai flight FZ1073, is now stable and in good spirits at an Abu Dhabi hospital, according to India's ambassador.
On September 30, flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv experienced a cockpit stabbing when the co-pilot allegedly attacked Captain Smit Machchhar. The Boeing 737 MAX 8, carrying 174 passengers and eight crew, descended sharply, transmitted emergency codes 7700 and 7500, and was diverted to Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Tabuk, where both pilots received initial treatment. After stabilisation, Machchhar was moved to an Abu Dhabi hospital, where he is reported to be smiling, laughing and chatting with his family.
India’s ambassador Deepak Mittal confirmed the pilot’s stable condition and praised his courage, while the Ministry of External Affairs pledged ongoing support. Passengers later continued to Tel Aviv on a replacement aircraft.
Why it matters
The incident highlights aviation security risks and the diplomatic coordination needed for medical care of injured crew members.
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