PM Modi Speaks To Indian Hero Smit Machchhar; Flydubai Pilot Says 'He Chanted Hanuman Chalisa In Cockpit' After Attack By Co-Pilot

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday spoke to Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot who was seriously injured while allegedly thwarting an attempt by his co-pilot to crash a Flydubai aircraft, and praised his courage in helping save the lives of passengers and crew members.

In the video that has gone viral, Machchar can be seen in a hospital. A bandage can be seen wrapped around his head and tubes through his nose. PM Modi can be seen speaking to him on a video call.

During the conversation, Machchhar shared his experience of the incident and spoke about what gave him the courage to act in the face of danger. He revealed that he chanted Hanuman Chalisa inside the cockpit after he was attacked.

The Prime Minister wished the captain a speedy recovery and lauded his actions in preventing a potential mid-air disaster aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was travelling from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Israel.

The conversation comes a day after Modi spoke to Machchhar's wife and parents on Thursday, assuring them of all possible assistance from Indian missions for the injured pilot and his family.

During his interaction with the family, the Prime Minister praised Machchhar's bravery, noting that his actions had helped save hundreds of lives and avert a major tragedy. He also assured them that Indian diplomatic missions were coordinating to provide the necessary support.

PM Modi Calls Captain Machchhar A 'Hero'

Earlier on Thursday, Modi had publicly hailed the pilot's courage in a post on X, describing him as a “HERO” for continuing to protect those on board despite being seriously injured.

“Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO. In the face of the gravest danger and despite being seriously injured, he showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others. His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy,” the Prime Minister wrote.

“India is proud of Captain Machchhar,” he added, while praying for the pilot's speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health.

Pilot Injured During In-Flight Incident

Captain Machchhar was reportedly attacked by his Omani co-pilot during the flight, triggering a serious in-flight emergency. Despite sustaining injuries, the Indian pilot continued to act to safeguard the passengers and crew, according to reports.

The aircraft was later diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, where Machchhar received initial medical treatment before being shifted to Abu Dhabi for continued medical care and recovery.

The Indian Embassy in the UAE has said that Machchhar is recovering well and that it remains in close coordination with local authorities to ensure his well-being. Meanwhile, UAE authorities are investigating the incident, including whether it was linked to terrorist activity, involved a terrorist purpose or had been planned in advance. Flydubai has said the reason for the altercation remains unclear, with investigations continuing.