‘Hero to World’: Netanyahu to honour Smit Machchhar on Independence Day

TEL AVIV: Israel will honour Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot who fought off an attempt to seize control of flydubai aircraft, on their Independence Day celebrations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who described the pilot of the aircraft carrying 174 passengers as a ‘hero of the world,’ has invited him to attend next year’s Independence Day celebrations in Israel.

Speaking to Smit Machchhar over the phone, Netanyahu asked him to light a torch at the Independence Day event. Lighting a torch is considered one of the highest honours awarded on Israel’s Independence Day and is traditionally reserved for Israeli citizens. However, Netanyahu told Smit Machchhar that, given the circumstances, he believed all Israelis would welcome him.

Netanyahu added that he was amazed by the courage and presence of mind Smit displayed under extremely difficult circumstances. You saved many lives, Netanyahu told him, and also wished him a speedy recovery.

The incident occurred on September 30 aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, Israel. During the flight, the co-pilot allegedly attacked Captain Smit Machchhar and attempted to crash the aircraft.

Smit Machar sustained serious injuries in the attack and was left weakened, but he used his remaining strength to open the cockpit door. Passengers and other crew members then entered the cockpit, subdued the attacking co-pilot and helped regain control of the aircraft.

The aircraft was subsequently diverted and landed safely at Tabuk International Airport in Saudi Arabia.