Introduction

Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot who played a crucial role in preventing a potentially catastrophic incident aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday. During the emotional video call, Machchhar revealed that he was reciting the Hanuman Chalisa during the tense moments of the cockpit ordeal.

Machchhar told PM Modi that whenever he faces a difficult situation, he recites the Hanuman Chalisa. He said he followed the same practice during the emergency aboard the Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight. The conversation became emotional as the injured pilot described the experience and told Modi that the Prime Minister was his "biggest idol." Moneycontrol

PM Modi Praises Captain Smit Machchhar's Courage

Prime Minister Modi praised Machchhar for his courage, composure and determination during the emergency. According to reports, Modi said the entire country was praying for the injured pilot and appreciated his efforts to protect the lives of everyone aboard the aircraft. The Business Standard

During the conversation, Modi also spoke with Machchhar's family and praised the values with which his mother, Geeta Ben, had raised him. Machchhar said speaking with the Prime Minister was a special and emotional moment that he had never imagined would happen.

The pilot also expressed his pride at receiving the call and recalled the importance of maintaining courage during the crisis.

What Happened Aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073?

The incident took place on September 30, 2026, aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv.

According to initial reports, a violent confrontation broke out inside the cockpit. The co-pilot allegedly attacked and stabbed Captain Machchhar and attempted to take control of the aircraft. The aircraft then experienced a rapid loss of altitude before the situation was brought under control. Reuters

Machchhar, despite suffering serious injuries, managed to reach and open the cockpit door. This allowed other crew members and passengers to intervene and restrain the co-pilot. Other pilots aboard the aircraft subsequently helped stabilize the aircraft.

The Boeing 737 MAX 8 was diverted to Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Airport in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. Reports said there were 174 passengers aboard, including 27 children. AP News

Pilot Was Seriously Injured During the Struggle

Reports and videos circulating after the incident showed Captain Machchhar seriously injured and covered in blood while wearing an oxygen mask.

Despite his injuries, he continued to act during the emergency. Reports indicate that his actions in reaching the cockpit door helped create an opportunity for other people aboard the aircraft to intervene.

The incident has attracted international attention, with Machchhar receiving praise from Indian and Israeli leaders for his role in preventing a potentially much more serious outcome. The Washington Post

Hanuman Chalisa Became Part of His Crisis Response

One of the most notable moments in Machchhar's conversation with PM Modi was his account of reciting the Hanuman Chalisa during the emergency.

He explained that reciting the devotional prayer is something he turns to when facing difficult circumstances. During the cockpit crisis, he continued reciting it while dealing with the unfolding emergency.

The account provides a personal insight into how Machchhar attempted to maintain focus during an extremely stressful situation. His comments during the call also reflected the emotional impact of the incident and the significance he attached to his faith.

International Investigation Continues

The exact motive behind the cockpit attack remains under investigation.

The United Arab Emirates has launched a formal investigation into the incident, while authorities in other countries have also been examining different aspects of the case. Investigators are looking into the circumstances surrounding the confrontation, the actions of the co-pilot and whether the incident had any wider security implications. The National

Israeli officials have described the incident as an apparent attempt to crash the aircraft, while investigators continue to establish the facts and motive. Reports have also noted that the co-pilot was an Omani national, although some details surrounding the case remain subject to official investigation. Reuters

Key Highlights

• Captain Smit Machchhar spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi through a video call.
• Machchhar said he was reciting the Hanuman Chalisa during the cockpit emergency.
• He described PM Modi as his "biggest idol" and became emotional during the conversation.
• PM Modi praised his courage, presence of mind and determination.
• Flydubai flight FZ1073 was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
• The aircraft carried 174 passengers, including 27 children, according to multiple reports.
• The plane experienced a rapid descent during the cockpit confrontation.
• Machchhar was reportedly stabbed and seriously injured during the incident.
• Passengers and crew members helped subdue the co-pilot after the cockpit door was opened.
• The aircraft was diverted and landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
• The UAE and other authorities are investigating the circumstances and motive behind the incident. Reuters

Professional Disclaimer & Third-Party Reference

This article is based on information reported by established third-party news organisations and publicly available reports, including Reuters, Associated Press, Indian Express, Moneycontrol and other media outlets. Details concerning the alleged motive, actions of the co-pilot and security aspects of the incident remain subject to ongoing investigation and may change as authorities release additional findings. Reuters

Conclusion

Captain Smit Machchhar's account of the Flydubai FZ1073 emergency has drawn widespread attention, particularly his revelation that he was reciting the Hanuman Chalisa while facing the crisis. His conversation with PM Modi highlighted the extraordinary pressure experienced inside the aircraft and the actions taken by the captain, crew and passengers to bring the situation under control.