NEW DELHI: The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking appropriate national recognition for flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar following an in-flight emergency on Sept. 30.
According to media reports, Machchhar, who was piloting flydubai Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv, was allegedly attacked by the flight’s first officer during the journey. He reportedly sustained serious injuries in the incident.
The FIP said Machchhar continued to carry out his responsibilities as pilot-in-command despite being injured and helped divert the aircraft safely to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
The pilots’ body has requested that the government consider Machchhar for an appropriate national bravery award or civilian recognition, subject to verification of the circumstances by the competent authorities.
The flight reportedly had 174 passengers and eight crew members on board. According to the FIP, Machchhar’s conduct during the emergency helped ensure the aircraft reached an alternate airport safely.
Rajya Sabha MP Milind Deora has separately written to Modi, requesting that Machchhar be considered for the Ashoka Chakra.
Media reports said passengers and crew members intervened following the alleged attack. The aircraft reportedly issued emergency signals and lost altitude before being diverted to Saudi Arabia.
Authorities in the UAE have ordered an investigation into the incident, including the circumstances and possible motive behind it. The findings of the investigation are awaited.
