Captain Machchhar: The Mumbai pilot who emerged as the hero of flydubai flight
After publishing: 10 headlines quietly rewritten, 5 descriptions edited, 1 URL changed16 changes
- NYT Worldseen 1 Oct, 16:43description edited
what the description said, before and after
Capt. Smit Machchhar from India suffered stab wounds while fending off an attack from his co-pilot, saving the lives of around 170 people on board, officials said.Capt. Smit Machchhar suffered stab wounds while fending off an attack from his co-pilot, saving the lives of around 170 people on board, officials said.
- ABC News (Australia)seen 1 Oct, 16:43headline rewritten
Pilot's prophetic words one year before stabbingStabbed pilot's prophetic words less than a year before attack - El Mundo (Spain)seen 1 Oct, 16:43headline rewritten
Así es Smit Machchhar, el piloto indio de Flydubai que ayudó a reducir al atacante en pleno vuelo tras ser apuñalado: "Es un héroe"Los tres 'héroes por accidente' que evitaron una tragedia en el vuelo de Flydubai: el piloto herido, el dentista y la mujer que oyó los gritos en la cabina - ČT24 (Czechia)seen 2 Oct, 03:57description edited
what the description said, before and after
Izraelský prezident Jicchak Herzog chce udělit jedno z nejvyšších civilních vyznamenání čtyřem izraelským cestujícím, kteří pomohli zneškodnit útočníka v letu společnosti Flydubai na trase z Dubaje do Tel Avivu, píše agentura AFP. Indický pilot Smit Maččchar, kterého druhý pilot napadl v kokpitu letadla, utrpěl vážná zranění a nyní se léčí v Saúdské Arábii. V Izraeli i v Indii je oslavován jako hrdina, jelikož dle výpovědi cestujících při souboji otevřel dveře kokpitu, čímž umožnil záchranu...Izraelský prezident Jicchak Herzog chce udělit jedno z nejvyšších civilních vyznamenání pěti izraelským cestujícím, kteří pomohli zneškodnit útočníka v letu společnosti Flydubai na trase z Dubaje do Tel Avivu, píše agentura AFP. Indický pilot Smit Maččchar, kterého druhý pilot napadl v kokpitu letadla, utrpěl vážná zranění a nyní se léčí v Saúdské Arábii. V Izraeli i v Indii je oslavován jako hrdina, jelikož dle výpovědi cestujících při souboji otevřel dveře kokpitu, čímž umožnil záchranu...
- Times of Indiaseen 2 Oct, 03:57headline rewritten
'He was smiling & laughing': India's envoy to UAE meets flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar'Smiling & laughing': India's envoy to UAE meets flydubai hero pilot Smit Machchhar - Times of Indiaseen 3 Oct, 05:00headline rewritten
Captain Machchhar: The pilot from Mumbai who proved to be the heroCaptain Machchhar: The Mumbai pilot who emerged as the hero of flydubai flight - ANSA (Italy)seen 3 Oct, 05:00headline rewritten
Il racconto del pilota-eroe del Flydubai: 'Ho aperto la porta della cabina mentre ero sotto attacco'Le indagini sul volo FlyDubai e il racconto del pilota-eroe - The Guardian Worldseen 3 Oct, 05:00description edited
what the description said, before and after
Smit Machchhar says in video call with Indian PM that he realised if he did not get up ‘passengers would lose their lives’ The Indian pilot who helped thwart an apparent attempt to crash a flydubai flight to Tel Aviv said his faith and his desire to save his passengers allowed him to make a “last push” to open the cockpit door as he fought his life. Capt Smit Machchhar, who was recovering in an Abu Dhabi hospital, described to India’s prime minister, Narendra Modi, how he helped save the plane...Smit Machchhar says in video call with Indian PM that he realised if he did not get up ‘passengers would lose their lives’ The Indian pilot who helped thwart an apparent attempt to crash a flydubai flight to Tel Aviv said his faith and his desire to save his passengers allowed him to make a “last push” to open the cockpit door as he fought for his life. Capt Smit Machchhar, who was recovering in an Abu Dhabi hospital, described to India’s prime minister, Narendra Modi, how he helped save the...
- The Hillseen 3 Oct, 05:00description edited
what the description said, before and after
The Indian pilot stabbed by his copilot in an apparent attempt to crash a FlyDubai aircraft recounted how he fought to save the 182 people on board. Airline Capt. Smit Machchhar told Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a video call released by the prime minister’s office on Friday that he was “fighting for my...The Indian pilot stabbed by his co-pilot in an apparent attempt to crash a FlyDubai aircraft recounted how he fought to save the 182 people on board. Airline Capt. Smit Machchhar told Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a video call released by the prime minister’s office on Friday that he was “fighting for my...
- Euronewsseen 4 Oct, 23:15headline rewritten
FlyDubai captain said he had “one more fight left in me” and opened cockpit doorFlyDubai captain said “I had one more fight left in me” and opened cockpit door - nbclosangeles.comseen 5 Oct, 01:34headline rewritten
Indian pilot hailed as hero recalls FlyDubai cockpit attack‘I was fighting for my life’: Indian pilot hailed as hero recalls FlyDubai cockpit attack - al-monitor.comseen 5 Oct, 01:37description edited
what the description said, before and after
An Indian pilot attacked by his co-pilot aboard a flight from the UAE to Israel said Friday that he "could not let all those people die", in his first public remarks after he helped stop the plane from crashing. His actions on Wednesday helped avert disaster when he managed to open the cockpit door despite suffering injuries, allowing passengers and crew to take control of the plane and make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.An Indian pilot attacked by his co-pilot aboard a flight from the UAE to Israel said Friday that he "could not let all those people die", in his first public remarks after he helped stop the plane from crashing. His actions on Wednesday helped avert disaster when he managed to open the cockpit door despite his injuries, allowing passengers and crew to take control of the plane and make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
- nbcsandiego.comseen 5 Oct, 01:37headline rewritten
Indian pilot hailed as hero recalls FlyDubai cockpit attack‘I was fighting for my life’: Indian pilot hailed as hero recalls FlyDubai cockpit attack - Euronewsseen 8 Oct, 06:15headline rewritten
FlyDubai captain said “I had one more fight left in me” and opened cockpit doorFlyDubai captain said 'I had one more fight left in me' and opened cockpit door - tribuneindia.comseen 8 Oct, 07:33headline rewritten
Israeli PM invites Smit to light flame on I-DayIsraeli PM invites Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar to light flame on I-Day - hngn.comseen 9 Oct, 15:14URL changed
now resolves towww.hngn.com/articles/273426/20261006/last-push-smit-flydubai-captain-recounts-attack-modi.htm
After the peak, new reports halved every 42 hours so far - this story is still being covered, so the figure moves as reports arrive.
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+ 22 more outlets · 53 reports left out of the cascade - too little in common with the story to place
How it spread - 112 original reports, 2 reprints
Wed, 30 September 2026
1 report- Times of India20:27edited after publishing
previously
Captain Machchhar: The pilot from Mumbai who proved to be the hero
Thu, 1 October 2026
34 reports- Times of India01:37
- Le Monde English03:32first to report
Indian pilot Smit Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot in a jetliner taking 174 passengers from Dubai to Tel Aviv, forcing the plane to make an emergency landing after passengers reportedly subdued the attacker.
- Channel News Asia04:07
For Indian pilot Smit Machchhar, aviation was never part of his childhood dreams.
- NYT World04:38edited after publishing
Capt. Smit Machchhar suffered stab wounds while fending off an attack from his co-pilot, saving the lives of around 170 people on board, officials said.
- Times of India05:06
- Times of India05:11
Neerja Bhanot, a flight attendant, showed immense courage during the 1986 hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73 in Karachi. She helped many passengers escape despite the danger, ultimately sacrificing her life. In 2026, Captain Smit Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot during a flight and successfully regained control of the aircraft. His actions prevented a mid-air disaster, saving 174 lives onboard.
- South China Morning Post05:18
An Indian pilot’s extraordinary bravery during an apparent mid-air hijack attempt has ignited a wave of national pride, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailing the pilot as a hero for saving 174 lives on a flydubai plane – adding a dramatic chapter to a career that began almost by chance. Captain Smit Machchhar was critically injured after taking the brunt of a knife attack on Wednesday, but managed to open the cockpit door so crew and passengers could overpower the attacker. “Captain Smit...
- El Mundo (Spain)05:22edited after publishing
previously
Así es Smit Machchhar, el piloto indio de Flydubai que ayudó a reducir al atacante en pleno vuelo tras ser apuñalado: "Es un héroe"El comandante, herido, logró dar la alarma y abrir la puerta de la cabina y un pasajero llegó a hacerse durante unos segundos con los mandos del avión: "Lo he visto hacer en una serie de televisión", cuenta Leer
- BBC News World06:01
Capt Smit Machchhar was attacked by another pilot onboard the Flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv.
- ABC News (Australia)06:14edited after publishing
previously
Pilot's prophetic words one year before stabbingCaptain Smit Machchhar was stabbed while flying to Tel Aviv. But who was he?
- Polsat News (Poland)06:39
Pilot samolotu Flydubai Smit Machchhar został uznany za bohatera po tym, gdy dzięki swojej postawie przyczynił się do uratowania 174 pasażerów. Według wstępnych doniesień indyjski kapitan został zaatakowany nożem przez innego pilota. Pomimo odniesionych obrażeń umożliwił kilku pasażerom wejście do kabiny i obezwładnienie napastnika. Premier Izraela złożył Machchharowi wyrazy uznania.
- iDNES (Czechia)07:09
Díky rychlému zásahu napadeného pilota Smita Machchhara mohli cestující a další členové posádky zasáhnout proti útočníkovi a zajistit bezpečné přistání letadla. Machchhar byl při incidentu vážně zraněn, přesto dokázal otevřít dveře kokpitu. Za svůj čin nyní sklízí chválu z Indie i Izraele.
- Novinky (Czechia)08:18
Jako hrdinu nyní oslavují indického pilota Smita Machchhara, který ve středu pomohl zachránit cestující na palubě letu společnosti flydubai do Tel Avivu poté, co jej v kokpitu pobodal jeho kolega usilující zřejmě o zničení letadla. Pilot i přes zranění otevřel dveře do kokpitu, což umožnilo dalším lidem vniknout dovnitř a útočníka zneškodnit.
- ČT24 (Czechia)08:57edited after publishing
Izraelský prezident Jicchak Herzog chce udělit jedno z nejvyšších civilních vyznamenání pěti izraelským cestujícím, kteří pomohli zneškodnit útočníka v letu společnosti Flydubai na trase z Dubaje do Tel Avivu, píše agentura AFP. Indický pilot Smit Maččchar, kterého druhý pilot napadl v kokpitu letadla, utrpěl vážná zranění a nyní se léčí v Saúdské Arábii. V Izraeli i v Indii je oslavován jako hrdina, jelikož dle výpovědi cestujících při souboji otevřel dveře kokpitu, čímž umožnil záchranu...
- Japan Times09:14
Smit Machchhar fought to retain control of a flight headed for Tel Aviv when his co-pilot allegedly attacked him.
- Times of India09:23
Captain Smit Machchhar was injured by his co-pilot who planned to crash their aircraft. Despite being attacked, Machhar managed to save the lives of 174 passengers. The courageous actions of Machhar have garnered attention and respect globally. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced the award to honor Machhar's bravery. The pilot is currently recovering from his injuries and is receiving well-wishes from across the nation.
- idrw.org10:20
India’s Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General of India in Jeddah on Wednesday said they were closely monitoring the health condition of Captain Smit
- iRozhlas (Czechia)10:24
Indický pilot, který odrazil útok svého kolegy a pomohl zabránit zřícení letadla společnosti flydubai mířícího do Izraele s více než 170 lidmi na palubě, je oslavován jako hrdina. Smit Maččchar byl při pokusu o zpacifikování útočníka těžce zraněn a léčí se v Saudské Arábii. Podle indické ambasády v Rijádu je ve stabilizovaném stavu.
- Slobodna Dalmacija (Croatia)10:34
Užas na nebu iznad Saudijske Arabije mogao je završiti katastrofom usporedivom s napadima na tornjeve WTC-a 11. rujna 2001. godine. Indijski pilot Smit Machchhar, kapetan na letu kompanije Flydubai iz Dubaija za Tel Aviv, te izraelski putnici proglašeni su herojima nakon što su zajedničkim snagama s...
- 24sata (Croatia)10:54
Indijski pilot Smit Machchhar hrabro je spriječio otmicu zrakoplova, unatoč teškim ozljedama
- Index.hr (Croatia)11:11
INDIJSKI pilot Smit Machchhar spriječio je pokušaj kopilota da sruši zrakoplov Flydubaija sa 174 putnika. Iako teško ozlijeđen, uspio je sigurno preusmjeriti let i spriječiti katastrofu.
- webindia123.com11:45
- Times of India11:57
An alarming incident unfolded on a flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv when co-pilot attacked pilot Smit Machchhar, resulting in a mid-air emergency landing. Machchhar’s quick thinking enabled him to unlock the cockpit door, facilitating crew intervention. Passengers stepped in heroically to restrain the co-pilot. Subsequently, Machchhar was airlifted to a medical facility in Dubai as authorities in Saudi Arabia and the UAE begin investigations into this disturbing incident.
- Slobodna Dalmacija (Croatia)12:01
Užas na nebu iznad Saudijske Arabije mogao je završiti katastrofom usporedivom s napadima na tornjeve WTC-a 11. rujna 2001. godine. Indijski pilot Smit Machchhar, kapetan na letu kompanije Flydubai iz Dubaija za Tel Aviv, te izraelski putnici proglašeni su herojima nakon što su zajedničkim snagama s...
- N1 Info (Croatia)12:04
Kapetan Smit Machchhar, indijski pilot koji je izboden dok je pomagao spriječiti navodni pokušaj otmice zrakoplova Flydubaija, u svojoj je domovini sl
- Google News - Top Stories12:56
Netanyahu says it's too early to determine motive in FlyDubai cockpit stabbing incident CBS News Who Is Captain Smit Machchhar, the Pilot Hailed as a Hero After FlyDubai Cockpit Stabbing? The New York Times Passengers foil bid to crash Dubai-Tel Aviv flight, Israel says, after co-pilot stabs pilot Reuters Netanyahu: Omani co-pilot went through Islamic radicalization Axios What we're learning about the FlyDubai co-pilot who allegedly stabbed the captain and tried to crash the plane CBS News
- tportal (Croatia)13:32
Indijskog pilota Smita Machchhara slave kao junaka nakon što je spriječio moguću otmicu zrakoplova koji je letio prema Tel Avivu
- Times of India14:23edited after publishing
previously
'He was smiling & laughing': India's envoy to UAE meets flydubai pilot Smit MachchharIndian ambassador Deepak Mittal visited Captain Smit Machchhar at the hospital following the stabbing incident. Captain Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot while flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv. After the initial treatment in Saudi Arabia, he was airlifted to Abu Dhabi for further medical care. Passengers and two other pilots helped to restrain the attacker and safely landed the flight.
- Google News - Top Stories15:07
What we're learning about the FlyDubai co-pilot who allegedly stabbed the captain and tried to crash the plane CBS News Israel's Netanyahu: Co-pilot of flydubai plane underwent radical Islamist indoctrination Reuters Trump says Iran may have been behind alleged Flydubai hijacking attempt Fox News Who Is Captain Smit Machchhar, the Pilot Hailed as a Hero After FlyDubai Cockpit Stabbing? The New York Times Screaming, panicking, blood: Passengers detail horrifying Israel-bound flight NBC News
- kyma.com17:23
The leaders of Israel and India hailed Indian pilot Smit Machchhar as a hero for saving passengers after he was stabbed by his colleague in an alleged attempt to crash a FlyDubai plane Wednesday.
- Channel News Asia17:55
Indian Ambassador Deepak Mittal visited injured Flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar in hospital, saying he was in “good health and recovering well” after being attacked by his co-pilot.
- El País (Spain)18:41
El capitán indio, después de ser atacado por su compañero, logró escapar, abrir la puerta de la cabina y dar acceso a los pasajeros que bloquearon al atacante
- Al Jazeera English19:54
Captain Smit Machchhar from India is recovering from stab wounds he suffered in a Flydubai flight altercation.
- netscape.com21:00
Fri, 2 October 2026
44 reports- Times of India01:35
Social media users worldwide are praising Captain Smit Machchhar for his bravery in saving passengers. People are urging the government to consider him for prestigious civilian awards, highlighting his acts of heroism. Residents from Ghatkopar are expressing pride as they share his background and achievements. Many shared his 2025 podcast discussing the importance of having doctors on flights in emergencies.
- Times of India06:03
The knife attack on Smit by the co-pilot inside the cockpit had forced the flight carrying 174 people from Dubai to Tel Aviv, Israel, to make an emergency landing in Tabuk in northwestern Saudi Arabia on Wednesday. Smit, 39, is recovering in Abu Dhabi. “In the face of the gravest danger... he showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others,” Modi wrote on X.
- BBC News World07:07
Capt Smit Machchhar tells Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi he opened the cockpit door to let others in during the attack.
- Google News - Top Stories07:29
‘I couldn’t let everybody else die,’ says hero Flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar cnn.com ‘I Couldn’t Let All of Them Die’: Pilot on FlyDubai Flight Recalls Sudden Attack The New York Times I opened cockpit door of plane while being attacked, says pilot of Dubai-Israel flight Yahoo News Canada Trump says Iran will be hit ‘very hard’ if it is behind copilot who tried to crash flight to Israel AP News FlyDubai captain tells India's leader how he saved himself and 173 others while fighting for his own...
- Index.hr (Croatia)07:46
INDIJSKI pilot Smit Machchhar spasio je putnike na letu Flydubaija. Iako ga je kopilot napao, uspio je otvoriti vrata kokpita i spriječiti pad zrakoplova, zbog čega je proglašen herojem.
- Euronews07:50
Still recovering in hospital, the pilot who helped prevent a tragedy on a FlyDubai flight has spoken publicly about the moment he fought to regain control of the cockpit. Capt. Smit Machchhar says he was “fighting for his life” but knew he had to get back up as the aircraft began its steep descent.
- ABC (Spain)07:52
Smit Machchhar, el comandante del vuelo FZ1073 operado por Flydubai , que cubría el miércoles la ruta desde Dubái a Tel Aviv cuando fue apuñalado por el copiloto, ha mantenido este viernes una videollamada con el primer ministro de la India, Narendra Modi, país del que también es originario Machchhar. El comandante, postrado en la cama del hospital donde está siendo atendido de sus heridas por arma blanca , con vendajes en la cabeza y en las manos, y un catéter nasal que le ayuda a respirar, ha...
- tportal (Croatia)07:54
Samo dan nakon što je pomogao spriječiti potencijalni teroristički napad, pilot zrakoplova iz bolničkog je kreveta, indijskom premijeru Narendri Modiju opisao trenutke borbe za kontrolu nad zrakoplovom. Kapetan Smit Machchhar rekao je da je, iako ozlijeđen i napadnut, shvatio da mora učiniti sve kako bi spriječio tragediju
- ANSA (Italy)08:16edited after publishing
previously
Il racconto del pilota-eroe del Flydubai: 'Ho aperto la porta della cabina mentre ero sotto attacco''Ho aperto la porta mentre mi colpiva'. All'inchiesta dovrebbe partecipare Israele
- Der Spiegel (Germany)08:38
Der Co-Pilot aus Oman attackierte ihn mit einem Messer: Trotz schwerer Verletzungen hat der indische Kapitän der Flydubai-Maschine aber Widerstand geleistet – und so wohl eine Katastrophe verhindert. Nun hat Smit Machchhar den Angriff geschildert.
- El Mundo (Spain)08:38
El comandante Smit Machchhar, que se recupera en un hospital de Abu Dabi, contó al primer ministro indio, Narendra Modi, durante una videollamada televisada, que sabía que tenía que volver a ponerse en pie para salvar a sus pasajeros Leer
- The Guardian World08:39edited after publishing
Smit Machchhar says in video call with Indian PM that he realised if he did not get up ‘passengers would lose their lives’ The Indian pilot who helped thwart an apparent attempt to crash a flydubai flight to Tel Aviv said his faith and his desire to save his passengers allowed him to make a “last push” to open the cockpit door as he fought for his life. Capt Smit Machchhar, who was recovering in an Abu Dhabi hospital, described to India’s prime minister, Narendra Modi, how he helped save the...
- BBC News World08:46
He has been hailed a hero for opening the cockpit door, allowing passengers to overpower his co-pilot.
- ABC News (Australia)08:53
Captain Smit Machchhar has been hailed a hero for his actions aboard a flydubai flight after his co-pilot stabbed him and the plane began a steep descent.
- El País (Spain)08:56
El comandante Smit Machchhar, calificado como “héroe” en India e Israel, habla por videollamada con su primer ministro, Narendra Modi, desde una cama de hospital en Abu Dabi
- Channel News Asia09:21
"I could feel that the aircraft was going down. I knew this was the last push," says flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar during a call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
- Libération (France)09:25
Smit Machchhar, poignardé mercredi par son copilote à bord d’un avion à destination d’Israël, a affirmé avoir agi pour protéger les passagers en parvenant à ouvrir la cabine de pilotage, dans une vidéo diffusée ce vendredi 2 octobre par l’équipe du Premier ministre indien.
- Polsat News (Poland)09:52
- Zdałem sobie sprawę, że jeśli nie wstanę (...) pasażerowie stracą życie - powiedział w rozmowie z premierem Indii Narendrą Modim kapitan linii Flydubai Smit Machchhar. Podczas lotu do Tel Awiwu został on zaatakowany nożem przez drugiego pilota, próbującego przejąć kontrolę nad maszyną. Machchhar pomógł udaremnić prawdopodobną próbę rozbicia samolotu .
- Le Monde (France)10:09
Smit Machchhar, pilote depuis dix-sept ans et commandant de bord depuis onze ans, a raconté comment il s’était aperçu, alors qu’il gisait blessé, que l’appareil était en train de chuter, et comment il avait réagi.
1 reprint
- Le Figaro (France)2 Oct, 08:43their copy
- nbclosangeles.com10:29edited after publishing
previously
Indian pilot hailed as hero recalls FlyDubai cockpit attack1 reprint
- nbcsandiego.com2 Oct, 10:29their copy
- al-monitor.com10:49edited after publishing
An Indian pilot attacked by his co-pilot aboard a flight from the UAE to Israel said Friday that he "could not let all those people die", in his first public remarks after he helped stop the plane from crashing. His actions on Wednesday helped avert disaster when he managed to open the cockpit door despite his injuries, allowing passengers and crew to take control of the plane and make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
- Novinky (Czechia)10:50
Zraněný indický pilot Smit Maččhar popsal, jak jej během středečního letu společnosti FlyDubai z Dubaje do Tel Avivu pobodal kopilot i to, jak poté navzdory zraněním dokázal otevřít dveře kokpitu a přivolat pomoc. Dramatické okamžiky vylíčil v pátečním videohovoru s indickým premiérem Naréndrou Módím.
- Wirtualna Polska (Poland)10:54
Indyjski kapitan linii lotniczych Flydubai, który pomógł udaremnić prawdopodobną próbę rozbicia samolotu lecącego do Tel Awiwu, opowiedział w piątek w wideorozmowie z premierem Indii Narendrą Modim, jak walczył o życie, gdy drugi pilot pchnął go nożem, a maszyna zaczęła gwałtownie opadać.
- Times of India11:06
- NYT World11:09
Capt. Smit Machchhar, who was stabbed by his co-pilot midair between Dubai and Tel Aviv, said he “had to act” to prevent a crash despite serious injuries.
- Google News - Top Stories11:17
Indian pilot tells PM Modi he opened flydubai cockpit door during attack Reuters ‘I couldn’t let everybody else die,’ says hero Flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar CNN 12 minutes of madness: How Flydubai pilot, passengers saved plane midfall Al Jazeera ‘I Couldn’t Let All of Them Die’: Pilot on FlyDubai Flight Recalls Sudden Attack The New York Times FlyDubai attack adds tumult to already turbulent Israeli election season The Washington Post
- Al Jazeera English11:23
The Indian pilot who was stabbed by his co-pilot on a Flydubai flight to Israel describes the attack.
- Times of India11:32
Sonal Machchhar faced an emotional turmoil upon discovering her husband Captain Smit Machchhar's heroic efforts during an airborne incident on a flydubai flight. Initially overwhelmed by the news, she found solace after visiting him in the hospital, reassured by his professional handling of the attack and the safety he ensured for the passengers. The incident has sparked an ongoing investigation involving both Israeli and UAE authorities.
- Times of India11:43
- indiablooms.com11:47
Indian pilot Smit Machchhar tells PM Modi how reciting the Hanuman Chalisa gave him courage during the cockpit battle with his co-pilot on a flydubai flight. | One of India's leading Digital News Agency offering Breaking News round the clock. Why not read our informative news portal today.
- France Info (France)11:59
Smit Machchhar a réussi, malgré ses blessures, il a trouvé la ressource pour ouvrir la porte du cockpit et sauver les passagers du crash. Soigné dans un hôpital à Abou Dhabi, le pilote indien du vol FlyDubai a raconté la scène au Premier ministre Narendra Modi.
- South China Morning Post12:14
The Indian airline captain who helped thwart an apparent attempt to crash a Flydubai flight described on Friday how he fought for his life in the minutes after his co-pilot stabbed him and the plane began a steep descent. Captain Smit Machchhar, recovering in an Abu Dhabi hospital, told Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a televised video call that he knew he had to get back on his feet to save his passengers. “I had so many wounds. I had fallen down,” he said from the hospital, his head...
- iDNES (Czechia)12:22
Pobodaný indický kapitán středečního letu z Dubaje do Tel Avivu byl rozhodnut nenechat ostatní lidi na palubě zemřít, proto vzepjal síly a otevřel dveře kokpitu, aby umožnil cestujícím zneškodnit útočníka. Kapitán Smit Maččchar, kterého napadl druhý pilot, to v pátek řekl indickému premiérovi Naréndru Módímu.
- abc7chicago.com12:27
Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar has recounted the harrowing moments when he was attacked by his co-pilot during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
- Al Jazeera English12:37
As it plunged 17,000ft in under two minutes, a quick-thinking captain and passengers saved plane from crashing.
- kfdm.com12:39
He told Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a video call that he forced himself back to his feet because passengers’ lives were at risk.
- The Hill12:54edited after publishing
The Indian pilot stabbed by his co-pilot in an apparent attempt to crash a FlyDubai aircraft recounted how he fought to save the 182 people on board. Airline Capt. Smit Machchhar told Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a video call released by the prime minister’s office on Friday that he was “fighting for my...
- nationalpost.com13:25
- hngn.com14:48
URL changednow www.hngn.com/articles/273426/20261006/last-push-smit-flydubai-captain-recounts-attack-modi.htm
Smit Machchhar told Modi he opened the cockpit door while being beaten; Saudi investigators say the co-pilot attacked him, and the motive is unknown.
- citizen.co.za15:15
Indian pilot attacked by co-pilot aboard flight from UAE to Israel says he could not let all those people die after helping stop the crash.
- DW Top Stories17:15
India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Captain Smit Machchhar via video call. Meanwhile, authorities in the UAE and Israel said an investigation is making progress.
- Al Jazeera English20:54
FlyDubai pilot hailed as ‘national hero’ as he describes attack
- Al Jazeera English22:50
Smit Machchhar recalls midair disaster after co-pilot's attack on Flydubai flight to Tel Aviv.
- ABC News (Australia)23:27
A pilot and close friend of the Indian flydubai captain who was attacked during a flight to Israel recalls his shock upon first seeing footage of the incident online.
Sat, 3 October 2026
10 reports- Times of India01:58
Salman Khan shared his appreciation for Captain Smit Machchhar's efforts in saving lives during a flight incident. The pilot was attacked by his co-pilot while flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv and sustained serious injuries. Despite this, he managed to successfully land the aircraft safely in Saudi Arabia with over 170 people on board. Other Indian celebrities, including Shilpa Shetty and Jackie Shroff, also recognized Machchhar's bravery and heroism.
- Anadolu Agency (AA)06:42
Smit Machchhar says he forced open cockpit door despite injuries as plane carrying more than 170 passengers plunged 17,000 feet
- indiatimes.com06:50
Mankind Pharma has announced Rs 1 crore in financial support for flydubai pilot Capt Smit Machchhar and his family, recognising his "extraordinary courage, composure and sense of responsibility demonstrated during a moment of unprecedented crisis."
- Il Fatto Quotidiano (Italy)09:01
Ha raccontato in una videochiamata con il primo ministro indiano Narendra Modi i momenti di terrore durante l’attacco del copilota omanita Hamam al-Hammami, che sul volo Fz1073 Dubai-Tel Aviv della FlyDubai lo ha accoltellato rischiando di fare schiantare l’aereo. Il comandante indiano Smit Machchhar ha parlato tra le lacrime, dal letto d’ospedale: secondo quanto ricostruito […] L'articolo Flydubai, il racconto in lacrime del comandante Smit Machchhar: “Mi stava accoltellando, ma non potevo...
- Times of India09:39
In a remarkable display of courage, Captain Smit Machchhar has gained admiration from Bollywood stars after surviving a brutal in-flight attack on a Flydubai flight. Stabbed by his co-pilot, he showcased extraordinary bravery by safeguarding the lives of his passengers. Celebrities, including Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, commended his quick thinking that allowed him to safely divert the aircraft.
- Times of India10:27
- tag911.ae11:24
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, has praised flydubai pilot Capt. Smit Machchhar after his actions helped avert more serious consequences aboard flight FZ1073.
- Times of India12:19
- France Info (France)18:50
Le pilote de l'avion, Smit Machchhar, salué de toutes parts comme un "héros", a déverrouillé la porte du cockpit bien que blessé, permettant ainsi de contrecarrer l'attaque et de sauver les 174 personnes à bord?
- abcnews.com21:05
The Indian pilot who was attacked by his co-pilot during a FlyDubai flight opened up and described the attack and his fight back Saturday.
Sun, 4 October 2026
6 reports- Times of India00:55
- businesstoday.in07:01
The captain detailed the mechanical struggle involved in opening the door, explaining that while crew members outside attempted to enter using an access code, the co-pilot repeatedly blocked their entry.
- businesstoday.in07:02
In June 2022, Captain Monica Khanna was piloting a SpiceJet flight from Patna to Delhi when the aircraft's left engine caught fire shortly after take-off.
- Euronews09:37edited after publishing ×2
previously
FlyDubai captain said “I had one more fight left in me” and opened cockpit doorFlyDubai hero captain Smit Machchhar described to Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu how the attack started and how he managed to finally open the cockpit door after nearly losing his vision under the co-pilot’s repeated blows. “I knew I couldn't let the passengers die,” Machchhar said.
- Times of India18:29
Captain Smit Machchhar was injured during a terrorist attack and underwent surgery in a military hospital. His parents initially faced uncertainty regarding his condition while trying to reach him. After being airlifted to Abu Dhabi, Smit's father felt relieved upon visiting him. The family decided to focus on Smit's recovery instead of revisiting the traumatic event. They remain optimistic about his healing process and future homecoming.
- tribuneindia.com22:35edited after publishing
previously
Israeli PM invites Smit to light flame on I-DayIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has invited Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to light the ceremonial flame at Israel’s upcoming Independence Day celebrations.
Mon, 5 October 2026
1 report- Index.hr (Croatia)09:04
IZRAELSKI premijer Benjamin Netanyahu nazvao je "pravim herojem" indijskog kapetana koji je pomogao spriječiti teroristički napad u zrakoplovu FlyDubaija.
Tue, 6 October 2026
4 reports- Times of India15:09
The US House of Representatives has honored Captain Smit Machchhar through a formal resolution, celebrating his courageous defense of the aircraft against a treacherous act by his co-pilot that placed all lives at risk. The flight safely reached Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, ensuring the passengers' safety. This resolution also acknowledged the vital contributions of off-duty pilots and crew members during the incident.
- tribuneindia.com15:17
Indian Captain Smit Machchhar is making steady progress and is regaining his health, the Indian Embassy in the UAE said on Tuesday.
- Times of India15:56
- Times of India21:23
Captain Smit Machchhar faced serious injuries from his co-pilot during the flight's crisis situation. The co-pilot attacked him with an axe, resulting in a skull fracture that required emergency surgery. Doctors monitored his recovery closely and assisted him for further treatment in the UAE. The Indian embassy is providing support to Captain Machchhar and his family during this challenging time.
Wed, 7 October 2026
1 report- indiablooms.com11:30
US lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan resolution honouring Indian Captain Smit Machchhar for his bravery during an alleged cockpit attack on Flydubai Flight 1073 that helped save passengers and crew. | One of India's leading Digital News Agency offering Breaking News round the clock. Why not read our informative news portal today.
Thu, 8 October 2026
1 report- Times of India23:26
Israel has announced that Captain Smit Machchhar will receive a prestigious Presidential Award for his bravery. He prevented a potential aviation disaster aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073 by acting decisively against a radicalized co-pilot. During the incident, six Israeli passengers displayed great courage in assisting Machchhar and foiling the hijack attempt. This heroic act has led to a broader investigation into the circumstances of the attack.
Sat, 10 October 2026
1 report- Times of India10:49
The National Investigation Agency has initiated a probe into the shocking attack on Captain Smit Machchhar, who was brutally stabbed by his co-pilot during a flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. In a remarkable display of courage, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door to facilitate assistance. The flight made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where he received treatment.
Sun, 11 October 2026
1 report- gulfnews.com10:07
Israeli President Isaac Herzog honors Captain Smit Machchhar for his valor in saving lives on a flydubai flight, calling him a hero of humanity and history.
Tue, 13 October 2026
1 report- Times of India13:43
Sat, 17 October 2026
3 reports- Times of India13:26
In a shocking incident on September 30, Indian Captain Smit Machchhar endured an assault by his Omani co-pilot aboard flydubai flight FZ1073 en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv. With injury and determination, Machchhar opened the cockpit door, allowing passengers to step in and restrain the assailant. The aircraft landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, following a critical altitude drop.
- Times of India17:50
Smit Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot during a routine Flydubai flight, which he initially misinterpreted. As he attempted to defend himself, he lost consciousness amidst his desperate fight for survival. Other crew members intervened and helped regain control of the aircraft after he opened the cockpit door. The pilot expressed gratitude for the medical treatment he received after safely landing in Saudi Arabia.
- indiatimes.com18:25
Two hours into the flight from Dubai to Tel Avivi, flydubai commander, Capt Smit Machchar was checking landing time and fuel figures on the computer when something struck hard at the back of his head. He thought part of his Boeing 737’s cockpit roof had broken loose.
Sun, 18 October 2026
1 report- The Guardian World17:27
Capt Smit Machchhar said he screamed for help as he reached to open the cockpit door on flight FZ1073 The captain of a flydubai flight who was attacked by a co-pilot who intended to crash the plane has described blocking axe blows to his head and screaming for help as he reached to open the cockpit door. Capt Smit Machchhar has been hailed as a hero for his role in averting disaster on the flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv last month, helping to thwart what the UAE attorney general has said...
Mon, 19 October 2026
1 report- ABC News (Australia)02:42
During the attack in the cockpit, Smit Machchhar says he calmed himself and said: "You can't die like this."
Tue, 20 October 2026
2 reports- Times of India06:21
Mohan Bhagwat highlighted Captain Smit Machchhar's bravery during a recent flight incident in his speech. He linked Machchhar's actions to Hindu values that prioritize protecting human lives and safety. The RSS aims to inspire national unity and build a strong society through these traditional values. Bhagwat emphasized the unconditional bond among Indians and the legacy of devotion demonstrated by freedom fighters.
- hindustantimes.com08:46
On September 30, flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar's copilot had attacked him inside the cockpit in what was seen as a plot to crash the plane. | India News