PM Narendra Modi has praised Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his courage and quick response during an emergency involving a Flydubai flight. Modi said the pilot’s actions helped protect the lives of 174 passengers and crew members on board.
Speaking at an event in Delhi held as part of the UPSC centenary celebrations, Modi highlightedSmit Machchhar handling of the situation. He said the pilot showed patience, courage and timely decision-making during the incident. Modi also referred to comments made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who reportedly praised the Indian pilot and compared the incident with the prevention of a possible tragedy on the scale of the 9/11 attacks.
“Captain Smit Machchhar responded with extraordinary patience, timeliness and courage,” Modi said, adding that his actions had brought pride to the country. Machchhar’s previous association with SpiceJet has also drawn attention. Before joining Flydubai, he reportedly worked with SpiceJet for around 10 years.
Following the incident, SpiceJet praised its former pilot for his actions. The airline said Machchhar’s courage and commitment reflected the values associated with the airline and described him as a hero. SpiceJet also wished him a speedy recovery following the incident.