Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited injured flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar on Saturday, October 3, 2026, following an attack inside the cockpit of flight FZ1073. Sheikh Hamdan praised the Indian pilot for his courage, responsibility and efforts to protect passengers during the incident.
Machchhar was injured on September 30 when an altercation involving the flight’s co-pilot occurred aboard a Boeing 737 MAX 8 travelling from Dubai International Airport to Tel Aviv. The aircraft was subsequently diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.
During the hospital visit, Sheikh Hamdan conveyed appreciation from the UAE leadership and described Machchhar’s actions as an example of courage and concern for human life.
“From us, and from the leadership of the nation, he has our full appreciation and praise,” Sheikh Hamdan said.
He also expressed pride in having Machchhar as part of the flydubai team and described the UAE as a nation of compassion, peace and life.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates, accompanied Sheikh Hamdan during the visit.
According to findings announced by UAE Attorney General Hamad Al Shamsi on October 3, the co-pilot attacked Machchhar inside the cockpit using a crash axe and attempted to take control of the aircraft.
The UAE Attorney General described the incident as an attempted terrorist act. Authorities are continuing investigations to establish the circumstances, motive and any possible connections associated with the incident.
Despite sustaining injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to intervene.
A reserve pilot travelling aboard the aircraft also assisted in responding to the emergency. The co-pilot was eventually restrained, and the aircraft was brought under control before landing in Tabuk.
The flight was carrying more than 170 passengers and crew members. No passenger fatalities were reported in connection with the incident.
The aircraft’s diversion enabled the injured captain to receive medical assistance, while authorities began investigating the circumstances surrounding the cockpit attack.
Following initial treatment in Saudi Arabia, Machchhar was transferred to Abu Dhabi for further medical care.
The Indian Embassy in the UAE confirmed on October 3 that the pilot was recovering well and receiving medical attention.
In its statement, the embassy said it remained in contact with his family and local authorities while extending support for his recovery. It also thanked the UAE government for the assistance provided.
Machchhar also received recognition from senior UAE officials following the incident.
UAE Presidential Adviser Anwar Gargash praised the pilot’s actions on October 2, highlighting his professionalism and responsibility during the emergency.
flydubai Chief Executive Officer Ghaith Al Ghaith expressed gratitude to the captain, crew members and passengers who helped manage the situation.
The airline said it would continue providing support to those affected by the incident.
The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority also acknowledged the response of the flight crew and passengers in bringing the situation under control.
Investigations into the incident remain ongoing, with authorities examining physical and digital evidence to establish the full sequence of events and determine the motive behind the attack.
Sheikh Hamdan’s visit on October 3 marked a public expression of appreciation from the UAE leadership for Machchhar’s actions during the emergency.
