NEW DELHI: Indian pilot Smit Machchhar, who was reportedly stabbed by his co-pilot in an alleged attempt to crash a Flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv, has publicly recounted how he managed to open the cockpit door despite suffering serious injuries, allowing passengers and crew to intervene and help regain control of the aircraft.
Speaking from a hospital bed in Abu Dhabi during a video call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, Machchhar said he realized the aircraft was descending rapidly while he was lying injured on the cockpit floor.
He said his years of aviation experience helped him understand the seriousness of the situation even as he was bleeding and severely wounded. Recalling the moment, Machchhar said he gathered the strength to reach the cockpit door and open it, despite continuing to be attacked.
Once the door was opened, passengers and crew entered the cockpit and helped overpower the co-pilot, according to Machchhar. A second pair of Flydubai pilots then took control of the aircraft and successfully landed it in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Machchhar, who has 17 years of experience in aviation, including 11 years as a captain, credited divine intervention for his survival.
During the emotional conversation, Modi praised Machchhar’s courage and presence of mind, saying his actions helped save lives and uphold the reputation of Indian pilots.
The Flydubai flight was carrying 174 people when it briefly plunged by around 17,000 feet (5,180 metres) before control of the aircraft was restored.
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