Indian pride swells as flydubai pilot who saved 174 lives hailed as hero - South China Morning Post

SCMP’s Asia deskPublished: 1:18pm, 1 Oct 2026Updated: 1:20pm, 1 Oct 2026An Indian pilot’s extraordinary bravery during an apparent mid-air hijack attempt has ignited a wave of national pride, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailing the pilot as a hero for saving 174 lives on a flydubai plane – adding a dramatic chapter to a career that began almost by chance.Captain Smit Machchhar was critically injured after taking the brunt of a knife attack on Wednesday, but managed to open the cockpit door so crew and passengers could overpower the attacker.

“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 wrote on social media on Thursday morning.

“India is proud of Captain Machchhar. Praying for his speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health.”