Flydubai Captain Describes Cockpit Attack and Struggle to Save Flight

The Indian pilot who survived a high-altitude attack inside the cockpit of a Flydubai flight has recounted his struggle to save the aircraft and its passengers. Captain Smit Machchhar was stabbed by his co-pilot during a journey carrying over 170 passengers, prompting a rapid descent before the crew and passengers managed to intervene.

Cockpit Struggle and Emergency Landing

Flydubai Flight FZ1073 was en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv early Wednesday morning when the incident unfolded roughly two and a half hours into the flight. The aircraft plunged more than 17,000 feet (5,200 meters) and transmitted an emergency signal before broadcasting squawk code 7500, the international signal for a hijacking. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later stated that the co-pilot stabbed Machchhar and apparently attempted to crash the plane.

Despite suffering injuries and being pinned to the floor under continued assault, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door from the inside to allow help in. During a video call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Machchhar explained that as the plane was sinking, he mustered a final push to unbolt the door. Passengers and crew subsequently entered, overpowered the assailant, and tied him up. Two off-duty reserve pilots who were traveling on board took control of the aircraft and landed it safely at Tabuk Airport in northwestern Saudi Arabia at 06:58 local time.

Pilot Recovery and Ongoing Investigations

Following the emergency landing, Machchhar received initial medical treatment at a hospital in Tabuk before being airlifted to Abu Dhabi. The Indian Embassy in the United Arab Emirates confirmed that he is in stable condition and recovering well. Machchhar, who has 17 years of aviation experience, expressed confidence in his full recovery during his conversation with Prime Minister Modi, who commended his bravery and swift decision-making.

Authorities are investigating the suspect, identified by Israeli officials as an Omani national who reportedly displayed signs of radicalization and suicidal intent during the struggle. The United Arab Emirates state news agency reported that official agencies have launched an investigation to determine if the attack was connected to terrorist activity.