Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 1: AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal praised Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his role in averting a potential disaster aboard a flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv after an alleged cockpit attack by his co-pilot.

Kejriwal said Machchhar displayed extraordinary courage despite being injured and helped protect the lives of those on board. The flight was carrying 174 passengers, including 27 children.

In a post on X, Kejriwal said he was proud of Machchhar and praised his actions in protecting the passengers. He also wished the injured pilot a speedy recovery.

Flydubai flight FZ1073, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, transmitted emergency signals on Wednesday and made a sharp descent after an alleged confrontation in the cockpit. The aircraft subsequently diverted to Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Airport in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely.

According to reports, the co-pilot allegedly attacked Machchhar inside the cockpit. Despite his injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to intervene and overpower the attacker. The aircraft was subsequently stabilised and landed safely in Tabuk.

Videos circulated on social media showed the injured pilot covered in blood and wearing an oxygen mask inside the aircraft. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also praised Machchhar and those who intervened during the incident.

The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia said Machchhar was admitted to a hospital in Tabuk and was receiving medical treatment. It said a full update on his condition was awaited, while reports indicated that he was in stable condition.

Flydubai said the aircraft was safely diverted and landed in Tabuk, with all passengers and crew accounted for. The airline said the reasons and motive behind the incident remained unknown and were subject to a formal investigation.