Brief

Family recounts emotional ordeal after flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar’s attack

The pilot’s Indian family details his injuries, hospital care and the support he received from UAE officials.

By Felo News Desk · Published Tue, 06 Oct 2026 20:44:22 GMT

Khaleej Times reported that the family of Captain Smit Machchhar is still coping with a "roller coaster of emotions" as investigations continue into the mid‑air attack on flydubai flight FZ1073.

On 30 September, the co‑pilot attempted to seize control of the aircraft, stabbing the captain with a crash axe. The plane was diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where Machchhar underwent surgery before being transferred to the UAE for further treatment.

Speaking to Indian media, his wife Sonal said she was initially devastated and could not sleep, but felt relief when officials confirmed his condition was stable. The Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited the captain in hospital and posted on X that the nation was proud of his role.

Machchhar’s father‑in‑law Jaysukh Jogi told local reporters, "Five people helped him. It is a miracle. He opened the cockpit door. Everything was over in three minutes." Ankit Jogi, the captain’s brother‑in‑law, added, "We are incredibly proud of what he has accomplished; no one else could have pulled off what he managed to do."

Family members said they are awaiting his return to India for a ceremony and a grand welcome.

Key facts

Captain Smit Machchhar was stabbed with a crash axe during a mid‑air attack on flydubai flight FZ1073. (khaleejtimes.com)
The aircraft diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where the captain underwent surgery before being moved to the UAE. (khaleejtimes.com)
Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan visited the captain in hospital and praised his actions on X. (khaleejtimes.com)
Family members described the incident as a miracle and expressed pride in the captain’s response. (khaleejtimes.com)