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Netanyahu Hails Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar as 'Hero For Entire World,' Invites Him to Israel's Independence Day
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News18•03-10-2026, 23:47
Netanyahu Hails Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar as 'Hero For Entire World,' Invites Him to Israel's Independence Day
- •Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with Indian pilot Smit Machchhar, inviting him to light a torch at Israel’s Independence Day celebrations.
- •Netanyahu praised Machchhar as a "hero for Israel, India and the entire world" for his actions during a mid-air emergency.
- •Machchhar, based in Dubai, averted a major disaster on a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv after being attacked by his co-pilot.
- •Despite serious injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing intervention and ensuring the safety of over 170 people.
- •The incident involved Flydubai flight FZ1073, where two additional pilots helped take control and safely land the aircraft in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Key Questions Answered
Benjamin Netanyahu invited Indian pilot Smit Machchhar to light a torch at Israel's Independence Day celebrations after Machchhar averted a major disaster by thwarting an attack by his co-pilot aboard a Flydubai flight.
Smit Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot inside the cockpit during a flight carrying over 170 people. Despite serious injuries, he opened the cockpit door so passengers and crew could intervene, allowing two other pilots to help safely land the plane in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Smit Machchhar has been recovering from his injuries under medical care while Indian authorities maintain contact with him and his family. He is currently based in Dubai following the mid-air emergency incident.
