A Flydubai jet heading from Dubai to Tel Aviv was attacked after the co‑pilot used a crash axe to strike the captain. The assault occurred roughly 2½ hours into the flight, when the aircraft had already gained 17,000 feet.
With more than 170 passengers aboard, many of them took quick action. They overpowered the attacker and volunteers from the crew rushed into the cockpit, allowing the captain to stabilize the aircraft and bring it down safely at an emergency landing site.
Captain Smit Machchhar was taken to a nearby hospital and later air‑lifted to Abu Dhabi. Medical staff report his condition as stable, and he has stated that he trusts in full recovery.
The UAE prosecutor general said investigations are underway to uncover the motives behind the attack. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu identifies the assailant as an Omani national who “called out to the crew, Kill me, kill me” after being subdued, suggesting suicidal intent. He also mentioned the possibility of Islamist radical indoctrination.
The incident is being examined for any links to terrorist activity, with authorities monitoring for patterns. In the meantime, the Indian government has publicly praised the captain’s courage during the crisis.
Photo: Indian government praised Captain Machchhar for his bravery in the crash‑axe attack.
