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Indian flydubai captain Smit Machchhar is recovering in Abu Dhabi after being attacked on a flight to Israel. His friend Dhaval Patel says he is recovering well.
Indian flydubai captain Smit Machchhar is recovering in Abu Dhabi after being attacked during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, according to India's embassy in the United Arab Emirates. The incident occurred this week and has drawn international attention, with Mr Machchhar being hailed as a hero by friends, his country, and people worldwide.
Attack on flydubai Flight to Israel
Mr Machchhar was allegedly attacked by his co-pilot, who apparently tried to crash the plane, according to Israel's prime minister. A statement published on X by the Saudi Arabia embassy to the US said preliminary investigations indicate the first officer had assaulted the aircraft captain, resulting in both sustaining various injuries.
Footage of the incident emerged this week, shocking those who know Mr Machchhar. He was moved to Abu Dhabi for further treatment and is recovering well, according to India's embassy in the UAE.
Friend Dhaval Patel Reacts to Attack
Captain Dhaval Patel, a close friend of Mr Machchhar, trained alongside him in New Zealand and has known him for close to two decades. Mr Patel said he was shocked upon seeing footage of the incident.
I vividly remember him helping colleagues and peers, educating them on the concepts of aviation with so much clarity and knowledge, Mr Patel said. I saw the first glimpse, and I was just not ready to believe it was Captain Smit. When it happens to the person you know, the person you love, it breaks you.
Mr Patel was glad to see his friend recovering steadily, out of any danger and in good health. That was the first sight of relief, seeing he is actually recovering and responding well to all the medical treatments, he said. It is pride for our entire clan to see one of our colleagues being respected by our honorary prime minister.
Smit Machchhar Recounts Fight for Life
In a video call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mr Machchhar said he had been fighting for my life on the plane. I have been flying for 17 years. I have been captain for 11 years. I know what is happening in flight even with my eyes closed, he said.
When I was on the floor, I could sense that the aircraft was going down, and then I told myself, Smit, give a last push. Door is there. I was getting stabbed at that point as well, but I opened the door, and others came inside. Everyone had a role in it. I was trying to save my life but same time I was also thinking I could not let die.
Mr Modi told Mr Machchhar he had done such a tremendous job that not just us Indians but people worldwide want to speak and meet you.
Career and Recovery of Captain Smit Machchhar
Mr Machchhar's LinkedIn profile shows he has been working for airlines for more than a decade. In a vodcast in 2025, he spoke about his aviation career and mentoring young pilots.
His friend Mr Patel highlighted Mr Machchhar's dedication to helping colleagues, saying it was a privilege to know him. The incident has sparked widespread admiration for Mr Machchhar's bravery and quick thinking during the attack.
As he continues his recovery in Abu Dhabi, Mr Machchhar remains focused on healing, with support from his family, friends, and well-wishers around the world.
Smit Machchhar Flydubai Dhaval Patel Abu Dhabi Narendra Modi Israel Dubai
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