Injured Indian pilot Smit Machchhar airlifted to UAE for further treatment

Dubai: Indian flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar, who was seriously injured during an alleged cockpit confrontation with his co-pilot, has been airlifted to Abu Dhabi for further medical treatment. He is reported to be in stable condition.

Machchhar was injured while operating a Dubai-Tel Aviv-bound flydubai flight carrying 174 people. The aircraft was diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where the injured captain received emergency medical treatment.

Despite suffering serious injuries, Machchhar reportedly managed to open the cockpit door during the confrontation, allowing passengers and crew members to intervene. The aircraft was subsequently brought to safety in Tabuk.

First visuals of Captain Smit Machchhar being airlifted to Abu dhabi for further treatment. Sending prayers, strength, and wishes for his quick recovery. 🫡🙏
This braveheart literally averted a war. 🇮🇳💕#IndianPilot #SmitMachchhar pic.twitter.com/MTxleo9LMB

— GSK (@GSVKapoor) October 1, 2026

Indian Ambassador meets family

India’s Ambassador to the UAE, Dr Deepak Mittal, met Machchhar’s wife, brother and other family members in Dubai and assured them of the Government of India’s full support for the captain’s treatment and welfare.

The envoy also praised Machchhar’s actions during the emergency. The incident has drawn widespread attention after the captain’s reported actions helped prevent a potentially serious aviation disaster.

Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the cockpit confrontation and the alleged attempt by the co-pilot to take control of the aircraft.