Israelis thank Smit Machchhar after flydubai attack
Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar has received an outpouring of gratitude from Israeli social media users after his actions during an alleged cockpit attack helped avert a disaster aboard a flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. According to Israeli authorities, Machchhar was seriously injured when the co-pilot stabbed him inside the Boeing 737 MAX cockpit. Despite his injuries, he reportedly fought back and opened the cockpit door, allowing passengers and others aboard to intervene. More than 170 passengers were travelling on the aircraft.
As accounts of the incident emerged, Israeli content creators and journalists shared videos praising the captain. Many encouraged their followers to remember his name and recognise his courage during the emergency.
Content creator Einav Avizemer thanked Machchhar and India, saying his intervention helped prevent a potentially devastating outcome. Influencer Talia Yoseph also highlighted his determination to protect passengers despite being severely wounded.
Social media personality Nima Yamini paid tribute to the captain’s bravery, while Israeli journalist Neria Kraus described how opening the cockpit door enabled those aboard to confront the alleged attacker. Israeli authorities alleged that the co-pilot intended to crash the aircraft. The report said the plane lost considerable altitude before other pilots and passengers intervened, helping bring it under control for a safe landing.
Modi, Netanyahu and Trump praise captain’s courage
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Machchhar’s courage and resolve to protect others, saying India was proud of him. He also expressed hope for the captain’s speedy recovery. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu credited the Indian pilot with extraordinary bravery and said his actions helped prevent a catastrophic disaster. US President Donald Trump also praised Machchhar, highlighting his presence of mind in opening the cockpit door despite his injuries.
The Indian embassy said it was monitoring the captain’s condition and remained in contact with his family. According to the embassy update cited in the report, Machchhar was reported to be stable.
Machchhar joined flydubai in 2022 after working with SpiceJet. His LinkedIn profile, cited in the report, lists approximately 9,750 flying hours on Boeing 737 aircraft. The tributes have drawn attention to the captain’s actions alongside the intervention of passengers and other pilots. Messages shared online expressed gratitude for his role in protecting those aboard and wished him a full recovery.
