Bollywood actors Shilpa Shetty and Jackie Shroff have praised Captain Smit Machchhar for his bravery during a mid-air emergency on a Flydubai flight. His actions reportedly helped protect more than 170 passengers and crew members during the incident.
Captain Smit Machchhar Handles Mid-Air Crisis
Captain Machchhar was operating Flydubai Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv when he was allegedly attacked by his co-pilot inside the cockpit. Despite suffering serious injuries, the pilot managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to enter and overpower the attacker.
The aircraft subsequently made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. According to reports, 174 passengers were onboard, and all passengers and crew members landed safely.
Shilpa Shetty and Jackie Shroff Pay Tribute
Following the incident, Shilpa Shetty expressed concern for those affected and praised Captain Machchhar for helping bring the passengers to safety.
“Heart goes out to everyone affected. And immense respect for Captain Smit Machchhar for bringing over 170 lives to safety,” she wrote.
Jackie Shroff also acknowledged the captain’s courage, along with the efforts of others who helped prevent a larger tragedy.
“Some heroes work in silence! All my respects to Captain Smit Machchhar and the other brave heroes for saving lives and averting a massive tragedy,” he said.
PM Modi and Other Celebrities Commend the Pilot
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also praised Captain Machchhar on social media, describing his actions as an example of courage. Actors R. Madhavan, Paresh Rawal, Sonam Kapoor, Kangana Ranaut and Vijay Deverakonda also expressed their appreciation for the Indian pilot.
PM Modi wrote, “Captain Smit Machchhar has shown the world the highest form of courage. Without fearing for his own life, he fought valiantly and prevented another 9/11 like attack from happening. 140 crore Indians salute Captain Smit and are praying for his well-being.”
Captain Machchhar Undergoing Treatment
Reports said Captain Machchhar was taken to a hospital for surgery following the incident. He is currently said to be in stable condition and receiving treatment in Saudi Arabia.
A Mumbai native, Machchhar is a commercial pilot with more than 10 years of experience flying Boeing 737 aircraft.