Saudi authorities arrest Omani co-pilot for stabbing captain and attempting to crash Flydubai flight; PM Modi describes Indian pilot Smit Machchhar true hero for saving lives

Saudi authorities have arrested an Omani co-pilot after he stabbed the captain and attempted to crash a Flydubai flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv in Israel. The Omani co-pilot stabbed the captain and caused the aircraft to plunge roughly 17,400 feet in under two minutes yesterday.

However, passengers and crew members, including off-duty personnel, breached the cockpit, subdued the attacker, and helped stabilise the plane. The flight was diverted and landed safely at Tabuk Regional Airport in northwestern Saudi Arabia.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz described the event as a severe security incident and a suspected terrorist attack.

The Israeli Prime Minister described Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian national, as a true hero who saved the lives of 174 people on board the Israel-bound flight. Mr Netanyahu said Captain Smit Machchhar displayed extraordinary bravery by fighting back and preventing a mid-air disaster.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that in the face of the gravest danger and despite being seriously injured, Captain Smit Machchhar showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others.

In a social media post, Mr Modi said his valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy. He said, Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO, and India is proud of him. The Prime Minister prayed for his speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health.

US President Donald Trump also hailed Captain Smit Machchhar as a hero for fighting off a knife attack from the Omani co-pilot, opening the cockpit door and calling for help to foil a bid to crash the aircraft.

India’s Embassy in Riyadh and its Consulate General in Jeddah said they are closely monitoring the health of Captain Smit Machchhar. In a statement, the Indian Embassy said Captain Machchhar is currently admitted to a hospital in Tabuk and receiving medical treatment.

The embassy said initial reports indicate that his condition is stable. The Indian mission said it is in touch with Captain Machchhar’s family and is extending all possible assistance in coordination with the Saudi authorities.