'Kamaal kar diya, pilot ji': Salman Khan Lauds Heroic Pilot Smit Machchhar
Salman Khan salutes Captain Smit Machchhar for his heroic actions during a mid-air emergency on a flydubai flight.
Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has stepped forward to salute Captain Smit Machchhar, the flydubai pilot who demonstrated extraordinary bravery during a life-threatening mid-air emergency. In a heartfelt tribute shared on X, the 'Bodyguard' actor praised the pilot for his courage in handling a terrifying cockpit attack, stating that it would be a pleasure to fly with him in the future.
A Salute to Extraordinary Courage
The incident, which took place on September 30, involved Flight FZ1073 traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. During the flight, a security crisis erupted when the Omani co-pilot allegedly attempted to attack the commander in what appeared to be a terror-driven attempt to bring down the aircraft. The confrontation was so violent that it caused the plane to drop approximately 16,000 feet within just two minutes.
Despite sustaining serious injuries during the struggle, Captain Machchhar refused to back down. He fiercely resisted the assailant, fighting to maintain control of the aircraft while the plane entered a steep descent. The crew and passengers eventually assisted in restraining the attacker, allowing the crew to reassert command of the flight.
Salman Khan’s public appreciation added weight to the national sentiment surrounding the incident. “Kamaal kar diya pilot ji, hum sab aap ko salute karte hain will be a pleasure to fly with u.. Well done bro.. Capt #SmitMachchhar,” the actor wrote on social media.
Family and Nation Express Pride
The pilot's family in Rajkot has expressed immense pride in his heroic actions. Speaking to ANI, Pulkit Machchhar, the pilot's cousin, noted that the entire community and the nation are celebrating the lives he saved. The family mentioned that the pilot's actions have become a source of pride for everyone, especially as his bravery has garnered national attention.
A Narrow Escape for 180 Passengers
The high-stakes confrontation ended with a successful emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Thanks to the resilience of Captain Machchhar and the swift intervention of the crew, all 180 occupants on board disembarked safely without any further injuries. As the pilot continues his recovery, the nation remains hopeful for his swift return to health.