He saved us from a 9/11: PM Modi leads praise for Indian pilot Smit Machchhar

Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO.

In the face of the gravest danger and despite being seriously injured, he showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others.

His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy.

India is proud of…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 1, 2026

After meeting the injured pilot, Ambassador Deepak Mittal said, “He was speaking openly, smiling and laughing which was a great relief for us and, above all, for his family.”

Earlier, the Indian embassy in the UAE said Mittal and Consul General Vishnu Vardhan Reddy met Machchhar’s family members. “They briefed the family about Captain Machchhar’s health and recovery, conveyed that the Embassy and Consulate are in touch with the UAE authorities, and assured the family of continued support,” the embassy said.

In New Delhi, President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi praised Machchhar for saving the lives of passengers.

The Prime Minister also spoke to the pilot’s wife and parents, praising him for averting a major tragedy and assuring the family that the government and Indian missions would provide all necessary support.

We salute the bravery of Captain Smit Machchhar, who, inspite of being gravely injured, showed remarkable courage that saved the lives of many. He is receiving medical attention and is safe. We wish and pray for his speedy recovery. The nation proudly stands with him and his…

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) October 1, 2026

Addressing an event to mark 100 years of the UPSC, Modi said, “Yesterday, an incident took place in which Indian Captain Smit displayed a remarkable presence of mind and courage. And as the Prime Minister of Israel said, an Indian has saved us from a 9/11. Smit’s bravery fills every Indian with pride.”

“Today, I also spoke to his father Bhupendra Bhai, his mother Geeta Behen, and his wife Sonal Behen. He is currently undergoing treatment. The entire world is proud of him today. I appeal to all citizens to pray for Smit’s long life and good health, and to honour Smit who has made India proud,” he said.

Our Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah have been following the health condition of Mr Smit Machchhar, the brave Indian pilot of Flydubai flight that was diverted to Tabuk today. He is admitted in a hospital in Tabuk city in northwest Saudi Arabia and receiving necessary…

— India in Saudi Arabia (@IndianEmbRiyadh) September 30, 2026

In a post on X, President Droupadi Murmu noted Machchhar’s “heroic courage and incredible presence of mind”.

“Even after being seriously injured in a moment of grave peril, he remained determined to protect the lives of others. His bravery and quick response helped prevent a major tragedy and saved many precious lives. I salute his indomitable spirit. I pray for his speedy recovery and good health,” she said.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, among a host of political leaders, also hailed the Indian pilot and wished him swift and full recovery.

Reuven Azar, Israel’s Ambassador to India, said, “Together with Israel, India and UAE, I pray for the life of Captain Smit Machchhar, the experienced and gifted hero Indian pilot of flydubai flight FZ1073. His courage & the courage of other Israeli & Emirati passengers & crew members saved the lives of 180 souls.”

The Ministry of External Affairs said that although Machchhar was gravely injured, he was safe.

“We salute the bravery of Captain Smit Machchhar who, in spite of being gravely injured, showed remarkable courage that saved the lives of many. He is receiving medical attention and is safe. We wish and pray for his speedy recovery. The nation proudly stands with him and his family,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.