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Indian Pilot Assaulted Mid-Flight Shows Injuries After Heroic Response

Capt. Smit Mhatre of FlyDubai faced a violent assault from a co-pilot while operating Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv on Wednesday. The injured pilot's first images have emerged, with international leaders praising his composure during the harrowing incident.

LSN India · 1 October 2026

Indian Pilot Assaulted Mid-Flight Shows Injuries After Heroic Response

An Indian pilot has emerged from a shocking mid-air assault with serious injuries after being attacked by a co-pilot aboard a FlyDubai flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Capt. Smit Mhatre was struck multiple times during the incident on Flight FZ1073 on Wednesday, according to accounts from the scene.

Photographs of the injured pilot released subsequently show the extent of his injuries sustained during the altercation. Despite the severity of the attack, Mhatre reportedly maintained his professional duties and ensured passenger safety throughout the ordeal.

The incident has drawn international attention, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu both publicly commending the pilot's bravery and quick thinking under extreme duress. The assault aboard the commercial aircraft has raised questions about security protocols and crew safety measures in cockpits during international flights.

FlyDubai has not released detailed statements regarding the circumstances that preceded the attack or the actions taken following the incident. Authorities in the relevant jurisdictions are investigating the matter, with the co-pilot's identity and current status remaining under review.