Pilot Whose Skull Was Fractured in Cockpit Attack Undergoes Surgery
The captain of a flydubai flight to Tel Aviv, who was attacked by an Omani co-pilot, prevented a disaster through his resistance and underwent surgery in Saudi Arabia.
Indian captain Smit Machchhar of a flydubai flight heading to Tel Aviv was attacked in the cockpit by Omani co-pilot Hamad Al-Hammami, but despite severe injuries, he maintained control of the aircraft to avert a disaster and underwent emergency surgery in Saudi Arabia.
Violent Attack in the Cockpit
On a flydubai flight to Tel Aviv, 38-year-old Indian captain Smit Machchhar was attacked by Omani co-pilot Hamad Al-Hammami. There were over 170 passengers and crew members on board during the incident.
Emergency Landing and Fight for Life
The severely injured captain, who suffered heavy blood loss, managed to unlock the emergency exit door. Crew members and passengers entered the cockpit to subdue the co-pilot, and the aircraft made an emergency landing at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia.
Surgical Intervention and Health Status
Diagnosed with a skull fracture and operated on due to bone fragments pressing on his brain, the pilot was transferred to the Military Hospital in Abu Dhabi for advanced care following his treatment in Saudi Arabia.
Meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Having held a video call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi last week, the captain recounted how he fought until the very last moment to save the lives of the passengers on board.