Milind Deora Seeks Ashok Chakra for Heroic Pilot Smit Machchhar
MP Milind Deora writes to PM Modi seeking the Ashok Chakra for Mumbai-born pilot Smit Machchhar after his heroic actions during a flydubai crisis.
In a powerful move to honour extraordinary heroism, Shiv Sena Rajya Sabha MP Milind Deora has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, requesting the prestigious Ashok Chakra for Captain Smit Machchhar. The Mumbai-born pilot displayed unparalleled bravery during a terrifying mid-air crisis aboard a flydubai flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
Writing on behalf of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and the Shiv Sena, Deora hailed the pilot as a "son of Mumbai" who demonstrated immense courage when lives were hanging in the balance. He noted that Captain Machchhar faced an unimaginable situation, prioritizing the safety of his passengers over his own life, even while suffering from serious wounds.
The Mid-Air Terror Attack and Heroic Resistance
The incident, which occurred on September 30, began as a security crisis that nearly resulted in a catastrophe. During the flight, the Omani co-pilot allegedly attempted to bring down the aircraft in a terror-driven attack, stabbing the commander.
The violent confrontation led to a sudden and terrifying descent, with the aircraft dropping approximately 16,000 feet within just two minutes. Amidst the chaos and the transmission of a hijacking distress signal, Captain Smit Machchhar fought back fiercely against the assailant despite being severely injured.
The struggle in the cockpit was eventually aided by flight crew members and passengers who managed to breach the flight deck to help restrain the attacker. Through their collective bravery, command of the aircraft was reasserted, allowing the plane to make an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. All 180 people on board were able to disembark safely without further injury.
Prime Minister Modi Meets the Brave Pilot
Recognizing the magnitude of the pilot's actions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally spoke to Captain Machchhar. During their conversation, the pilot shared the harrowing details of the experience and discussed what gave him the strength to remain calm and courageous during the crisis. The Prime Minister applauded his bravery and extended his best wishes for a speedy recovery.
Update on Captain Machchhar’s Health
According to India's envoy to the UAE, Dipak Mittal, Captain Machchhar is currently in a stable condition and is recovering well in a hospital in the UAE. Mittal, who visited the pilot and his family, provided a reassuring update on his condition.
Speaking to Prasar Bharati, the Ambassador noted:
"I just met him along with his family here, in the hospital, in the UAE, and he's doing well; he's quite stable. He was talking, he was chatting, a bit of discomfort, but I think he's under good medical care here in the UAE."
Mittal described the pilot as a "brave son of India," emphasizing that his decisive response prevented a major disaster and saved hundreds of lives.