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Captain Smit Machhar Emotional on PM Modi's Video Call, Recounts Cockpit Ordeal
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News18•02-10-2026, 12:30
Captain Smit Machhar Emotional on PM Modi's Video Call, Recounts Cockpit Ordeal
- •Captain Smit Machhar, who saved 174 passengers on a Flydubai aircraft, had a video call with PM Narendra Modi.
- •PM Modi praised Captain Smit's courage and assured him of all possible government help and direct contact.
- •Captain Smit revealed he recited Hanuman Chalisa during the crisis when the Omani co-pilot attacked him in the cockpit.
- •The Flydubai Boeing 737, at 34,000 feet, plummeted 23,000 feet per minute after the co-pilot's attack.
- •Despite severe injuries, Captain Smit opened the cockpit door, allowing crew to overpower the attacker and land safely.
Key Questions Answered
PM Modi inquired about Captain Smit's health, took detailed information about the cockpit incident, asked where he found such bravery during the crisis, and assured him of all possible help from the Indian government.
Despite being severely injured by the Omani co-pilot at 34,000 feet, Captain Smit managed to open the cockpit door so crew members and passengers could enter and overpower the attacker, allowing other pilots to safely land at Tabuk Airport.
An emotional Captain Smit told PM Modi that he considers him his biggest idol and revealed that during the terrifying attack and rapid descent, he was reciting the Hanuman Chalisa in his mind.
