Indian Pilot Smit Machchhar Recovers After Mid-Air Attack

Flydubai pilot Capt Smit Machchhar is recovering in Abu Dhabi after being stabbed by his co-pilot during a Tel Aviv-bound flight. The attack caused the plane to plummet 17,000 feet, but Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers to intervene and regain control. The aircraft safely diverted to Saudi Arabia.

In a video call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Machchhar credited his survival to a determination not to let others die. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the pilot as a hero for his quick decision-making. The Indian embassy confirmed Machchhar is in stable condition and recovering well.

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This article is AI-generated and fact-gated. Original reporting: BBC World