An Indian pilot on a Flydubai flight who was stabbed in the cockpit by his co-pilot has recounted how he fought through his injuries to open the cockpit door from inside, allowing crew and passengers to intervene and save the aircraft.
Flydubai flight FZ1073, carrying more than 170 passengers from Dubai to Tel Aviv early on Wednesday, plunged more than 17,000 feet (5,200 metres) about two and a half hours into its journey, reports BBC.
The aircraft initially sent an emergency signal to air traffic controllers before switching its transponder to code squawk 7500, which indicates a hijacking. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later said one pilot had stabbed the other before “apparently trying to crash” the plane.
Capt Smit Machchhar, who was lying injured on the cockpit floor while still being attacked, realised that the aircraft was losing altitude and gathered his remaining strength to unbolt the door.
The 17-year aviation veteran said he could judge what was happening to an aircraft even with his eyes closed. Speaking during a video call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said that while fighting for his own life, he was determined not to let others perish.
Once the cockpit door was opened, fellow passengers and aircrew entered, overpowered the assailant and restrained him. During the struggle, the attacker shouted, “kill me, kill me” at the aircrew, prompting Netanyahu to tell Fox News that the man was clearly suicidal.
Netanyahu said the attacker was an Omani national and that initial inquiries pointed towards “Islamist radical indoctrination”.
Two reserve pilots on board subsequently took control of the aircraft and safely landed it at Tabuk Airport in north-western Saudi Arabia at 06:58 local time.
According to the United Arab Emirates state news agency, UAE authorities have opened an investigation into whether the assault was connected to terrorist activity or purpose.
After the landing, Capt Machchhar was treated at a hospital in Tabuk before being airlifted to Abu Dhabi, where his condition is stable.
The Indian embassy in the UAE confirmed on Thursday that he was in good health and recovering well. Indian Ambassador Deepak Mittal also expressed pride in Capt Machchhar’s bravery after visiting him.
Modi commended the captain, saying his courage, patience and quick decision-making had saved numerous lives and brought pride to the entire nation.
Social media users across India have praised the pilot, while Netanyahu also hailed him as a “true hero”.
Reflecting on his recovery, Capt Machchhar said he refuses to view his injury merely as a wound, choosing instead to see it as a gradual journey towards regaining full health and fitness.
