Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar Recounts Cockpit Attack: “Suddenly There Was a Big Blow”
· 50-word read
In 50 words
Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar has given his most detailed account yet of the attack aboard flydubai Flight FZ1073. He said the co-pilot asked to pray before suddenly striking him from behind. Despite severe injuries and blurred vision, Machchhar reached the cockpit door, allowing passengers to intervene and regain control.
Why it matters
UAE prosecutors have officially described the incident as an attempted “terrorist act.” CBS News reported that Israeli officials currently believe the suspect likely acted alone rather than under the direction of a terrorist organisation or foreign state. The motive and any wider links remain under investigation.
What's next
UAE authorities are continuing forensic, digital and security investigations into the suspect’s background and motive. Australian authorities are also examining his reported links to Australia, while investigators are scrutinising how he was able to work as a flydubai pilot despite reports of earlier security concerns. ABC News
Key dates
- 30 Sept: FZ1073 departs Dubai for Tel Aviv
- Captain attacked inside cockpit
- Aircraft plunges about 16,000 feet in roughly 30 seconds
- Machchhar opens cockpit door
- Passengers overpower co-pilot
- Reserve pilots land safely in Saudi Arabia
- 3 Oct: UAE calls it an attempted terrorist act
- 4 Oct: Machchhar’s detailed account receives wider international coverage.
Ask BangkokScoop AI about this story
Sources
- CBS Evening NewsView original →