LSN News › India

World · India Bureau

Omani co-pilot accused of axe attack on Indian pilot in alleged terror bid

UAE authorities are investigating an alleged attack aboard an aircraft where an Omani co-pilot is accused of assaulting Indian pilot Smit Machchhar with an axe. Investigators are examining the circumstances and possible motives behind the incident.

LSN India · 3 October 2026

Omani co-pilot accused of axe attack on Indian pilot in alleged terror bid

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates are investigating a serious incident involving an alleged attack by an Omani co-pilot against an Indian pilot aboard an aircraft. The co-pilot, whose name has not been disclosed, is accused of attempting a terrorist attack and using an axe to assault pilot Smit Machchhar during the incident.

The investigation into the alleged attack is ongoing, with authorities working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the event. Officials are examining multiple aspects of the case, including the sequence of events that led to the confrontation and the potential involvement of other factors.

Investigators are also seeking to determine the co-pilot's possible motives for the alleged assault and any potential connections related to the incident. The probe includes a comprehensive review of the circumstances and any relevant background information that may shed light on what transpired.

The incident highlights security concerns in the aviation sector and has prompted heightened scrutiny of safety protocols aboard aircraft. The investigation remains active as authorities work to compile a complete picture of the alleged attack and its underlying causes.