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Injured pilot recounts heroic flydubai emergency landing to PM Modi

Captain Smit Machchhar, who sustained serious injuries while piloting a flydubai aircraft through a mid-air crisis, has shared details of the harrowing incident with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a video conversation.

LSN India · 2 October 2026

Injured pilot recounts heroic flydubai emergency landing to PM Modi

During the virtual interaction, Machchhar recounted the critical moments when he sensed the aircraft experiencing a catastrophic failure mid-flight. Despite the severity of his own injuries, the pilot made the decisive choice to prioritize passenger safety and maintain control of the aircraft through the emergency descent.

The captain's account emphasizes the rapid assessment and decisive action required during the crisis. Facing the imminent danger, Machchhar acknowledged the weight of responsibility as hundreds of lives depended on his next moves. His determination to prevent a tragedy overrode his own physical pain and distress during the ordeal.

The flydubai incident has highlighted the critical role of pilot training, aircraft systems, and individual courage in aviation safety. Machchhar's actions during the emergency underscore the professional standards and commitment demonstrated by commercial aviation crews in managing extraordinary situations.

Prime Minister Modi's interaction with the pilot reflected recognition of the bravery displayed during the incident. The conversation provided an opportunity to acknowledge the exceptional circumstances and the quick thinking that prevented loss of life aboard the aircraft.