UAE Presidential Adviser Anwar Gargash has praised Indian Flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his courage during a mid-air cockpit attack, describing the incident as a “dangerous terrorist act” and saying the pilot demonstrated courage and responsibility in averting a potential disaster.Gargash, the diplomatic adviser to UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed, said Machchhar deserved appreciation for his actions during the incident aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30.Key HighlightsUAE adviser Anwar Gargash praised Indian pilot Smit MachchharGargash described the incident as a “dangerous terrorist act”Machchhar was allegedly attacked by his co-pilot inside the cockpitThe aircraft was carrying 174 passengersThe flight was diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, and landed safelyUAE authorities are investigating the incident, including possible terrorist linksIndian Pilot Smit Machchhar PraisedGargash said Machchhar “deserves every bit of appreciation” for his response during the emergency. He credited the Indian pilot with displaying courage, responsibility and professionalism during the incident.Machchhar was seriously injured after his co-pilot allegedly attacked him inside the cockpit. Despite his injuries, the captain managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to intervene.Flydubai Flight Diverted to Saudi ArabiaFlydubai flight FZ1073 was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv when the cockpit confrontation occurred. The Boeing 737 reportedly plunged around 14,000 feet during the incident before the aircraft was brought under control.The plane was diverted to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, where it landed safely. Saudi authorities later said initial findings indicated that the pilot had been assaulted by his co-pilot, with both sustaining injuries.(READ MORE : PM Modi Speaks to Tearful Captain Smit Machchhar, Says Whole Country Wants to Talk to You)Investigation Into Possible Terror Link ContinuesAlthough Gargash referred to the episode as a “dangerous terrorist act,” the UAE’s formal investigation is still examining whether the incident was connected to terrorist activity, prior planning or direction. The UAE Attorney-General has ordered a specialist investigation team to establish the facts and determine the circumstances and motive.Authorities have also cautioned against spreading unverified information or speculation while the investigation continues. The nationality of the co-pilot has been reported by Israeli officials as Omani, but this detail has not been independently confirmed by all authorities.Smit Machchhar Speaks to PM ModiMachchhar, who is recovering in a UAE hospital, spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi by video call on October 2. He described how he fought to regain control of the situation despite suffering multiple injuries.The captain said he realised he had to get back up and act because the lives of those aboard the aircraft were at risk. Modi praised his courage and presence of mind during the emergency.The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
