Indian pride swells as flydubai pilot who saved 174 lives hailed as ‘absolute hero’
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Smit Machchhar for unlocking the cockpit door to avert a crash after his co-pilot’s attack
Captain Smit Machchhar was critically injured after taking the brunt of a knife attack on Wednesday, but managed to open the cockpit door so crew and passengers could overpower the attacker.
“Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO. In the face of the gravest danger and despite being seriously injured, he showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others. His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy,” Modi wrote on social media on Thursday morning.
“India is proud of Captain Machchhar. Praying for his speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health.”
