Indian pilot Smit Machchhar saved 170 passengers from a potential crash after being attacked by his co-pilot on a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Machchhar, a 17-year veteran, fought to open the cockpit door despite being stabbed, allowing passengers to subdue the attacker and stabilize the plane. The aircraft made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after a steep descent.
Machchhar, who is recovering in Abu Dhabi, described how he fought to save passengers as he lay injured on the floor. He said he could feel the plane was descending and knew he had to 'give a last push' to open the door. The co-pilot, who is now in custody in Saudi Arabia, is believed to have undergone Islamic radicalization, according to Israeli authorities.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of a 'very heavy price' if any country is found responsible for the attack, while Saudi officials praised Machchhar's actions. The incident has drawn international attention, with Machchhar being hailed as a hero by world leaders. The co-pilot is being investigated for potential links to terror organizations.
The incident has raised concerns about the security of international flights, with Netanyahu and other officials emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation. Machchhar's actions have been described as a 'courageous' act that prevented a 'great tragedy,' and he is being supported by medical teams in Saudi Arabia as he recovers from his injuries.