Netanyahu Hails Wounded Indian Pilot and Passengers as Heroes of Flydubai Flight
· 50-word read
In 50 words
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described terrifying moments aboard flydubai Flight FZ1073, saying passengers feared the plunging aircraft would crash. He credited wounded Indian Captain Smit Machchhar, Israeli passengers and crew with helping save 174 people after the co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain and attempted to bring down the aircraft.
Why it matters
Reuters reports Machchhar, despite being wounded, managed to release the cockpit door, enabling passengers and crew to intervene. A reserve flydubai crew then took control and landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. The episode is prompting tighter Israeli security checks for pilots flying into the country.
What's next
Saudi authorities are investigating the co-pilot and his motive. Netanyahu has raised questions about possible accomplices or outside involvement, including Iran, but separately acknowledged that it is too early to determine whether Iran was involved. Flydubai has also cautioned against premature speculation.
Key dates
- 30 Sept: FZ1073 leaves Dubai
- Captain Smit Machchhar is attacked
- Aircraft rapidly loses altitude
- Machchhar opens cockpit access
- Passengers and crew overpower co-pilot
- Reserve pilots land safely in Tabuk
- 1 Oct: Investigation into motive and possible accomplices continues.
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Sources
- Fox NewsView original →
- reuters.comView original →
