US official praises Indian pilot and passengers for thwarting Flydubai crash bid
· World · Hindustan Times, India Today
US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau praised Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and passengers who overpowered the co-pilot of Flydubai flight FZ1073, preventing a potential crash with nearly 180 people onboard, mostly Israelis. The co-pilot, Omani national Hamam al-Hammami, allegedly stabbed Machchhar in the cockpit while attempting to crash the Tel Aviv-bound flight on September 30, 2026. Machchhar and other passengers heard the commotion and restrained al-Hammami, averting a major aviation accident. Landau expressed 'utmost respect and awe' for their courage, stating India and Israel should be proud of their actions. Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed also visited Machchhar in hospital and praised his bravery and responsibility. The incident occurred on a flight operated by Dubai-based Flydubai.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the critical role of passenger and crew vigilance in preventing in-flight threats, particularly on routes with high Israeli passenger traffic. It also underscores international recognition of Indian professionals' courage in global aviation safety.
Read the original report — Hindustan Times
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