Pilot describes opening cockpit door after alleged co-pilot attack

Flydubai captain Smit Machchhar has described how he opened the cockpit door while injured after an alleged attack by his co-pilot during a flight to Tel Aviv. Speaking from a hospital in Abu Dhabi during a video call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Machchhar said he had collapsed on the floor but could feel the aircraft descending. He said he realised the door was nearby and made a final effort to open it despite being attacked.

Machchhar said passengers and crew entered the cockpit and overpowered the co-pilot. A second pair of Flydubai pilots then took control and landed the aircraft in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. The flight was carrying 174 people and briefly plunged about 17,000 feet before it was brought under control.

Machchhar said his experience, including 17 years as a pilot and 11 as a captain, helped him understand the emergency while he was wounded. He also said he recited a Hindu devotional prayer during the incident and believed divine intervention had saved him. Modi praised his presence of mind and said his actions had saved lives.

The UAE has announced an investigation. The supplied report cites statements by UAE presidential adviser Anwar Gargash and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu describing the event as a terrorist act and making claims about the co-pilot’s motives. Those claims remain allegations in the material provided.

US President Donald Trump warned that Iran would face a strong response if it were found to be linked to the attack. The supplied report does not provide evidence establishing such a link. Machchhar remains in hospital in Abu Dhabi, where officials have said he is recovering.