Captain Smit Machchhar is being recognized for his composure and actions after an incident on flydubai flight FZ1073. The flight, en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv with 174 people aboard, experienced a severe drop in altitude when, according to Israeli officials, the co-pilot attacked Captain Machchhar and attempted to crash the aircraft.
Despite sustaining stab wounds, Captain Machchhar managed to regain control of the plane after it reportedly dropped nearly 14,000 feet in under 30 seconds. He also succeeded in opening the cockpit door, which allowed passengers and crew to subdue the attacker. The aircraft subsequently landed safely in Saudi Arabia.
Friends and colleagues describe Captain Machchhar, 39, as a calm, composed, and down-to-earth individual. They expressed shock that such an event would ever be necessary, highlighting his consistent helpfulness and respect towards all staff, from his flying school days to his current role as a captain and line trainer at flydubai. His actions are seen by former classmates as a reflection of his straightforward and non-pretentious nature.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
