PM Modi Speaks to Captain Smit Machchhar’s Family, Assures Support After Flight Incident

During the conversation, Modi lauded Machchhar’s actions and said the pilot’s bravery had helped save hundreds of lives. The Prime Minister also assured the family that Indian missions were providing all possible assistance.

Machchhar is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where he was taken after the aircraft was diverted following the incident.

The Indian Embassy in Riyadh has been in contact with the pilot’s family and was awaiting further details on his condition. The mission has also assured the family of continued assistance in coordination with Saudi authorities.

Earlier on Thursday, Modi had publicly praised Machchhar in a post on X, describing him as a “HERO” and commending his courage despite being seriously injured.

“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 said.

“India is proud of Captain Machchhar,” he added, while praying for his “speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health”.

Machchhar was reportedly attacked during the flight but continued to act to protect passengers and crew, eventually helping enable the aircraft to divert to Tabuk.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had also praised the Indian pilot, describing his actions as an act of “extraordinary bravery”. According to a statement from the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office, Machchhar was seriously injured after being attacked but resisted the assailant and helped open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to overpower the attacker.

Netanyahu said the pilot’s actions prevented what could have become a major aviation disaster and saved the lives of the 174 people aboard the aircraft, including Israeli citizens and passengers of other nationalities.

He also wished Machchhar a speedy and full recovery, describing the Indian pilot as “a true hero”.

The incident has drawn attention in India and abroad, with officials continuing to coordinate with Saudi authorities over the pilot’s medical treatment and the circumstances surrounding the flight.