Mankind Pharma has granted Rs 1 crore to Capt Smit Machchhar, recognizing his heroic actions during a tumultuous incident while piloting flydubai flight FZ1073
MUMBAI: Mankind Pharma has announced Rs 1 crore in financial support for flydubai pilot Capt Smit Machchhar and his family, recognising his “extraordinary courage, composure and sense of responsibility demonstrated during a moment of unprecedented crisis. ” Machchhar has been widely praised after a dramatic mid-air incident on September 30, when flydubai flight FZ1073, carrying 174 passengers and eight crew members, came under attack inside the cockpit during its Dubai-Tel Aviv journey.
Despite his injuries, Machchhar continued to discharge his responsibilities as pilot-in-command and helped ensure the aircraft was brought under control before it was diverted safely to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, the Federation of Indian Pilots said. The first officer allegedly attacked Machchhar, leaving him seriously injured. Machchhar, despite being seriously injured, managed to activate the cockpit door release, allowing passengers and crew members to enter and overpower the attacker. The aircraft had also undergone a rapid descent during the incident before it was stabilised.
The flight was carrying 174 passengers and eight crew members when the incident occurred, according to the Federation of Indian Pilots. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Mumbai | Silver Rate in Mumbai | Bank Holidays in Mumbai | Public Holidays in Mumbai | Mumbai AQI | Weather in Mumbai | Petrol Price in Mumbai | Diesel Price in Mumbai | CNG Price in Mumbai | LPG Price in Mumbai Stay updated with the latest Mumbai news.
Machchhar later told Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a video call that he had been reciting the Hanuman Chalisa during the ordeal to remain composed. The pilots’ body said his decision to continue performing his duties despite being injured demonstrated exceptional courage and responsibility towards the passengers and crew. Modi praised him for his courage and presence of mind. The Federation of Indian Pilots has also written to the Prime Minister seeking a national bravery award or another appropriate civilian honour for Machchhar, citing his conduct during the emergency. Mankind Pharma’s announcement adds to the recognition being extended to the pilot following the mid-air crisis. Download the TOI App.
Machchhar’s family and residents in Mumbai had earlier spoken about their relief after the aircraft landed safely, while people gathered outside his Tilak Nagar home to honour him and seek a gallantry award.