Indian pilot Smit Machchhar, who survived a mid-flight attack by his co-pilot, has been praised as a hero after saving 174 passengers on a flight bound for Tel Aviv. Machchhar, who opened the cockpit door during the attack, is recovering in Abu Dhabi.
Machchhar, a 17-year veteran pilot with over 9,750 flying hours, was stabbed by his co-pilot during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The incident, which involved a 14,000-foot plunge, led to an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. Netanyahu called Machchhar a 'true hero' and praised his courage.
Netanyahu warned of a 'very heavy price' if any country is found responsible for the attack, while UAE officials investigated whether the incident was a terrorist act. Machchhar's actions, described as a 'last push' to open the door, prevented a potential disaster.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu suggested the co-pilot may have been radicalized, but no country has been identified as responsible. Machchhar, who is recovering in Abu Dhabi, has been hailed as a symbol of courage and responsibility by both Indian and UAE officials.