“Kamaal Kar Diya Pilot Ji”: Salman Khan Praises Flydubai Pilot Smit Machchhar After Mid-Air Attack

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has praised Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his courage during a mid-air emergency aboard a Flydubai flight, saying he would be delighted to fly with him. The pilot was seriously injured in an alleged attack by his co-pilot but managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to intervene and help prevent a potential disaster.

Actor Salman Khan has joined the growing list of public figures praising Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot who helped bring a dangerous in-flight emergency under control. In a message shared on social media platform X, the actor applauded the captain’s courage and expressed admiration for his actions during the incident.

“Kamaal kar diya pilot ji, hum sab aap ko salute karte hain. Will be a pleasure to fly with u… Well done bro,” Salman wrote, tagging the captain by name. His message quickly attracted attention as tributes continued to pour in for the pilot.

What Did Salman Khan Say About Captain Smit Machchhar?

Salman Khan’s message praised Machchhar’s determination and presence of mind during the emergency.

The actor’s words, which translate roughly to “You did an amazing job, pilot sir; we all salute you,” reflected the public appreciation for the captain’s efforts to protect those aboard the aircraft.

The incident has drawn attention from across India, with celebrities and political leaders recognising the pilot’s actions under extraordinary pressure.

What Happened Aboard the Flydubai Flight?

The incident took place on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv.

According to reports, the flight’s co-pilot allegedly attacked Captain Machchhar inside the cockpit, seriously injuring him. The aircraft subsequently entered a steep descent, creating a potentially dangerous situation for everyone on board.

The Boeing 737 was carrying passengers and crew when the emergency unfolded. Reports have cited different passenger and total-occupant figures, but the aircraft ultimately landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

The incident is under investigation, and the motive behind the alleged attack has not been conclusively established in the reports cited here.

How Captain Smit Machchhar Helped Prevent a Potential Disaster

Despite suffering serious injuries, Captain Machchhar realised that the aircraft was descending and that immediate intervention was necessary.

Speaking to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a video call from a hospital in Abu Dhabi on October 2, the captain recounted how he managed to open the cockpit door despite his injuries.

He explained that he understood the danger facing the passengers and forced himself to act even after collapsing.

Once the cockpit door was opened, passengers and crew were able to enter and help restrain the alleged attacker. A second pair of pilots then took control of the aircraft, which was diverted to Tabuk for an emergency landing.

The captain’s account highlighted the difficult circumstances in which he acted and the importance of his decision to seek assistance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Also Praises the Pilot

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Captain Machchhar while he was recovering in hospital and praised his courage and presence of mind.

During their conversation, the captain described the frightening moments aboard the aircraft and explained how he had tried to protect the people on board.

The incident has prompted widespread discussion about aviation safety, cockpit security and the responsibilities of flight crews during emergencies.

Machchhar’s actions have also been recognised by other public figures, including international leaders and members of the Indian film industry.

Who Is Captain Smit Machchhar?

Captain Smit Machchhar is an Indian commercial pilot with approximately 17 years of aviation experience, including around 11 years as a captain, according to published reports.

Before joining Flydubai, he worked with Indian airline SpiceJet. His professional experience and familiarity with aircraft operations were important factors in his response to the emergency.

Originally from Gujarat, Machchhar has received widespread recognition for his actions during the incident. His account from hospital has provided a clearer picture of the difficult decisions he faced while seriously injured.

Bollywood Celebrities Salute the Captain

Salman Khan is among several Indian celebrities who have expressed admiration for Machchhar.

Actors and public figures have shared messages recognising his courage and the importance of protecting passengers during a crisis. The response has extended beyond the entertainment industry, with the incident receiving significant attention in India and internationally.

For many observers, the captain’s story highlights the responsibilities that airline pilots carry and the challenges they may face in situations that demand quick decisions.

Captain Smit Machchhar’s Recovery

Following the emergency landing, Machchhar received medical treatment and was later reported to be recovering in a hospital in Abu Dhabi.

His conversation with Prime Minister Modi offered an update on his condition and provided details of the incident from his perspective. His recovery remains an important concern as authorities continue to investigate the events aboard the flight.

The airline and relevant authorities are expected to establish further details as the investigation progresses.

Conclusion

Salman Khan’s message to Captain Smit Machchhar has added to the widespread appreciation for the Indian pilot following the Flydubai mid-air emergency.

Despite serious injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door and enable others to intervene during a potentially catastrophic situation. The aircraft landed safely in Saudi Arabia, and the captain is receiving medical care.

As the investigation continues, his account has brought attention to the importance of courage, training and quick decision-making in aviation emergencies. For Salman Khan and many others who have publicly praised him, Captain Machchhar’s actions deserve recognition.