New Delhi: In a candid video conversation on Friday, Captain Smit Machchhar – the Indian pilot at the centre of the recent Flydubai turbulence – recounted how he fought through grave wounds to steer the aircraft toward safety.

The chain of events that triggered the emergency

The Flydubai jet was cruising from Dubai to Tel Aviv when a sudden malfunction involving the co‑pilot caused an abrupt loss of altitude. In the ensuing chaos, Machchhar was injured and the aircraft entered a steep dive. Passengers and cabin crew breached the cockpit, and the plane was eventually diverted to a secure landing in Saudi Arabia.

Machchhar’s recollection of the decisive moments

From his hospital bed, the captain explained that decades of cockpit experience allowed him to sense the rapid descent even after being knocked to the floor.

Despite excruciating pain, he realised immediate action was essential. He forced the jammed cockpit door open, giving passengers and crew the opportunity to rush in and assist in stabilising the flight path.

Highlighting a 17‑year aviation career – 11 of them as a captain – Machchhar said his training helped him decode the aircraft’s distress cues amidst the turmoil.

PM Modi lauds the pilot’s poise

During the exchange, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the captain’s bravery, composure, and swift decision‑making, extending heartfelt wishes for a rapid, full recovery.

The captain grew emotional while describing the instant he recognised the aircraft’s uncontrolled descent and felt compelled to intervene rather than remain a passive observer.

Safe arrival in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia

Official reports indicate the flight carried more than 170 passengers and crew members. After the cabin crew and passengers intervened, a second pair of Flydubai pilots assumed control and guided the jet to a safe touchdown in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

Machchhar continues to receive medical treatment following the incident.

Faith as a source of steadiness

Machchhar also revealed that his spiritual practice was a cornerstone of his calm during the ordeal. He recites the Hanuman Chalisa whenever he confronts fear or adversity, and he kept chanting throughout the emergency.

“I trusted my training, my faith, and the people around me,” the captain said, before the call concluded with PM Modi reiterating his hopes for a swift recuperation.