New Delhi: Quoting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday that Captain Smit Machchhar of the flydubai flight averted a 9/11 style tragedy.
Addressing the centenary celebrations of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) at Bharat Mandapam here, Modi recalled the incident and praised Machchhar for displaying courage despite being seriously injured.
“The incident that occurred yesterday, Captain Smit of India demonstrated remarkable patience, presence of mind, and courage; indeed, as the Prime Minister of Israel stated today, an Indian prevented a 9/11-style tragedy. For every citizen of our country, Smit's valor fills us with immense pride,” Modi said.
Modi also appealed to citizens to pray for the pilot’s recovery.
“I appeal to all citizens of the country that we all pray for Smit's long life and good health and let us honor Brother Smit, who has enhanced the pride and honor of India,” he said.
Modi also spoke to the wife and parents of Machchhar and enquired about his health, as the injured pilot undergoes treatment at a hospital in Saudi Arabia following the mid-air incident aboard a flydubai flight.
During the telephonic conversation, Modi said Indian missions were providing all possible help to Machchhar and lauded his courage and presence of mind in helping avert a major tragedy.
“Today, I had a conversation with his father Bhupendrabhai, his mother Gitaben, and his wife Sonalben. His medical treatment is currently ongoing, and today the entire world feels proud of him,” Modi said.
President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday also hailed Machchhar for his ‘heroic courage’ and presence of mind during the mid-air incident, saying his actions helped prevent a major tragedy and save many lives.
“The nation is proud of Captain Smit Machchhar. His heroic courage and incredible presence of mind have deeply touched us all,” Murmu said in a post on X.
“Even after being seriously injured in a moment of grave peril, he remained determined to protect the lives of others. His bravery and quick response helped prevent a major tragedy and saved many precious lives,” she said.
“I salute his indomitable spirit. I pray for his speedy recovery and good health,” the President added.
Machchhar, an Indian national and flydubai captain, was injured during a serious cockpit incident aboard flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30.
The flydubai flight FZ1073 had transmitted emergency signals on Wednesday and made a sharp descent of more than 17,000 feet from 34,000 feet before diverting to Prince Sultan Bin Abdel Aziz Airport in Saudi Arabia's Tabuk city.
The flight was carrying 174 passengers, including 27 children.
(With agency inputs from ANI & PTI)