Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar has recalled the cockpit attack that nearly led to a major aviation tragedy on September 30, praising the colleague who took control of the aircraft and helped save 174 passengers.
Flydubai Hero Recalls Dubai-Tel Aviv Flight Experience, Says “Survival Instinct” Kicked In #Flydubai #Dubai #TelAviv #FlightNews
Credit – @TheNationalNews, @MINAALORAIBI https://t.co/V7JigmpkF0— NewsMobile (@NewsMobileIndia) October 17, 2026
Speaking in an interview with Sky News Arabia, Machchhar described the moment he feared for his life after allegedly being attacked by his Omani co-pilot, Hammam al-Hammami, with a crash axe.
“I realised for a moment that I wouldn’t survive,” he said in the interview trailer.
Machchhar also expressed gratitude to the colleague who took over the controls after he collapsed. “My colleague who took control and saved the day is commendable, It is something that I will keep with me till I die,” he said.
The aircraft reportedly plunged nearly 14,000 feet in less than 30 seconds during the incident. Passengers entered the cockpit and helped restrain the co-pilot after the door was opened.
Another co-pilot and a dentist provided medical assistance, while a second set of pilots took control. The flight, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Machchhar was seriously injured and later transferred to Abu Dhabi, where he continues to recover.
