Nation proudly stands with him": India hails Captain Smit Machchhar after Flydubai mid-air attack

India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal praised Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar after the Indian pilot of Flight FZ1073 saved lives despite being gravely injured in a mid-air attack. Posting on X, Jaiswal said Machchhar is receiving medical attention and is safe, and urged wishes for his speedy recovery. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also hailed Machchhar’s “presence of mind,” saying his actions helped save hundreds of lives and avert a major tragedy. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said Machchhar, reportedly stabbed and wounded inside the cockpit, overpowered the attacker and helped protect passengers and crew, including 174 people on board.