ndian Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar has spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, recounting the terrifying moments when his co-pilot allegedly attacked him during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
Machchhar, who was previously praised by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his bravery, explained how he struggled to regain control of the cockpit as the aircraft rapidly descended.
According to Machchhar’s account, his co-pilot, identified as Omani national Hamam al-Hammami, stood up and said he wanted to pray. Shortly afterwards, Machchhar said he was suddenly attacked from behind.
The captain said the blows continued as he tried to keep the aircraft under control. He eventually realised that the co-pilot was using the cockpit’s emergency crash axe in the assault.
The axe is a standard emergency tool carried in aircraft cockpits and can be used by pilots in certain emergencies, including breaking through cockpit windows or other barriers when an escape route is required.
As the aircraft plunged rapidly, Machchhar struggled to reach and unlock the cockpit door. He reportedly attempted to open it, but the door was closed again. He made another attempt and eventually succeeded.
That gave crew members, passengers and other pilots an opportunity to enter the cockpit and restrain al-Hammami.
The aircraft, Flydubai Flight FZ1073, was subsequently diverted and landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
The United Arab Emirates has described the incident as an attempted terrorist attack and confirmed that the co-pilot attacked the captain with the cockpit’s crash axe while attempting to take control of the aircraft. Investigators are still examining the motive and whether anyone else was involved. (Reuters)
Reports have also identified al-Hammami as an Omani national who had previously been removed from flying duties with Oman Air amid concerns about alleged extremist views. However, investigations into his background, motives and possible connections remain ongoing. (Sky News)
Machchhar’s account to Netanyahu follows his earlier conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during which he described how he managed to open the cockpit door despite being injured, allowing others to intervene and prevent what could have been a major aviation disaster. (Reuters)
The captain’s actions have since drawn widespread praise, with officials and members of the public crediting his presence of mind and determination with helping save the lives of those aboard the aircraft.