Flydubai captain Smit Machchhar told Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today that he managed to open
By Bernard Moerdler,
Flydubai captain Smit Machchhar told Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today that he managed to open the cockpit door while still being attacked during Wednesday's Dubai to Tel Aviv flight, allowing passengers and crew to intervene.
Speaking by video from his hospital bed in Abu Dhabi, Machchhar said his 17 years of flying experience helped him recognize that the aircraft was descending as he lay wounded on the floor. He described gathering the strength for one final effort to reach the door. "I was not going to let others die," he said, crediting those who entered the cockpit with an equal role in bringing the situation under control.
Modi praised his courage, composure and ability to make crucial decisions within seconds. "Smit, whenever you need me, I am just a phone call away," he told the captain. Modi also thanked Saudi Arabia and the UAE for their assistance following the incident.
Machchhar said he had repeatedly recited the Hanuman Chalisa, a Hindu prayer, during the attack. He said his recovery would take time but expressed confidence that he would regain his health.
Topics: Israeli Politics
Reported by Bernard Moerdler for Bernie News Network. See our editorial standards and corrections policy.