Abu Dhabi, 2 October, 2026 (Ghufran): Indian pilot Smit Machchhar has recounted the dramatic attack he allegedly faced from his co-pilot aboard a flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, describing how he managed to open the cockpit door and seek help while the aircraft was rapidly losing altitude. Speaking to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi through a video call from a hospital in Abu Dhabi, Machchhar, who was seen with bandages on his head and hands, described the incident and his efforts to prevent further danger. He said he realized that the aircraft was going down and, despite being injured, managed to reach and open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to enter and overpower the co-pilot. Machchhar said he had been flying for 17 years and had served as a captain for 11 years. The aircraft, carrying 174 people, reportedly plunged nearly 14,000 feet in less than 30 seconds during the incident on Wednesday. A spokesperson for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Machchhar was covered in blood and lying on the cockpit floor when he succeeded in opening the door. Passengers and crew then restrained the co-pilot, while another pair of flydubai pilots on board took control of the aircraft and landed it in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. During the video call, Prime Minister Modi praised Machchhar for his courage and presence of mind, while the pilot, who is from Gujarat, said he believed that God had saved him.