Smit Machchhar Identified as Indian Pilot Attacked on Flydubai Flight

Smit Machchhar, an Indian national and Flydubai captain, has been identified as the pilot who was stabbed during the serious cockpit incident aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv on Wednesday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said one pilot attacked the other and attempted to interfere with the aircraft, which entered a rapid descent before the situation was brought under control.

Machchhar was injured during the confrontation. The aircraft was diverted and landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, while the other pilot was taken into Saudi custody. All passengers were reported safe.