Politics · Singapore Bureau
Israeli PM lauds Indian pilot's heroism after stabbing incident
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has praised Indian pilot Smit Machchhar for his swift action in preventing a potential aviation disaster after he was stabbed by a colleague during a flydubai flight. The incident occurred on Wednesday when the co-pilot allegedly attempted to crash the aircraft.
LSN Singapore ·

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commended the actions of Indian pilot Smit Machchhar following an alleged attack aboard a flydubai aircraft that could have resulted in significant loss of life.
The incident unfolded on Wednesday when Machchhar was stabbed by his colleague in what authorities describe as an apparent attempt to crash the plane. Despite sustaining injuries, Machchhar's quick response and decisive action prevented the aircraft from being compromised, allowing the flight to continue safely.
Netanyahu's public acknowledgment of Machchhar's bravery highlights the critical role professional aircrews play in aviation safety. The pilot's ability to maintain control of the situation while injured underscores the importance of training and quick thinking in emergency situations at 35,000 feet.
Flydubai, a low-cost carrier based in the United Arab Emirates, operates regional routes across South and Southeast Asia. The carrier's safety procedures and crew training were credited with enabling the successful outcome of the incident.