Capt Smit Machchhar's In-Laws Thank Nation for Support After Flydubai Incident

Machchhar's in-laws said the family became emotional while watching Prime Minister Narendra Modi speak with the injured pilot over the phone on Friday.

Neerava Jogi, Machchhar's sister-in-law, said the family had been overwhelmed by the public response and thanked people across the country for their support.

She said the family was initially anxious because they could not meet Machchhar during the first 24 to 36 hours after the incident. They were later able to speak with him and were reassured that he was stable, although he had sustained several injuries.

Jogi said the family was particularly moved by Modi's interaction with the pilot.

Machchhar's father-in-law, Jaysukh Jogi, said the family had been deeply worried after learning that the pilot had been attacked during the flight. He said Machchhar suffered injuries to his head and hand, including a fracture, as well as cuts that required stitches.

He said the family was relieved to learn that the pilot's condition was stable and credited the Almighty with protecting him.

Jogi added that Machchhar became emotional during his conversation with the Prime Minister and regarded Modi as a role model. The family, he said, was delighted to watch the interaction and expressed its gratitude to the Prime Minister, the Government of India and the media for their support.

The incident occurred aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was reportedly diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia after an in-flight confrontation involving Machchhar and his co-pilot. Machchhar was injured while dealing with the situation, with reports saying more than 170 people were aboard the aircraft.

Meanwhile, BJP MLA Atul Bhatkhalkar visited Machchhar's in-laws at their Mumbai residence on Saturday.

Jaysukh Jogi thanked the legislator for visiting the family and offering his support. Machchhar's brother-in-law Ankit Jogi also described the visit as a source of pride for the family and said Bhatkhalkar had assured them of assistance whenever required.

The family said the nationwide response had been a source of strength during what had been a difficult period and expressed appreciation for the prayers and goodwill extended towards the pilot.