Flydubai Pilot’s Recovery Monitored by Mumbai Officials

Mayor Ritu Tawde of Mumbai visited the home of Captain Smita Machhar’s family on September 4, after the pilot’s dramatic rescue on a Flydubai flight became headline news. The mayor arrived at the family’s residence in Ghatkopar’s Ward 132 and was received by Captain Machhar’s uncle Kishor Machhar.

During the visit, Tawde inquired about the specific medical procedures being undertaken and the recent improvements observed in the captain’s health. She expressed heartfelt wishes for a rapid and complete recovery, and promised that the citizens of Mumbai will extend every possible encouragement and aid.

The meeting was attended by local political figures including MLA Parag Shah, councilor Dharmesh Giri, councilor Rakhi Jadhav, and several neighborhood residents, illustrating the community’s direct engagement with the family.

Captain Machhar, who was piloting a Flydubai aircraft from Dubai to Tel Aviv, faced a hostile attack from her co‑pilot while in the cockpit. The assailant struck her from behind, causing severe injuries and temporary visual impairment. Nonetheless, she managed to open the cockpit door, allowing other crew members to intervene and secure the plane, which later landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

In a later interview with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Captain Machhar described the moment of the attack and clarified that the initial shock made her think the aircraft was experiencing a technical malfunction. Netanyahu hailed her bravery, labeling her a hero for India, Israel, and the world, and invited her and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Israel’s Independence Day celebrations.

Prime Minister Modi also commended her bravery and dedication to protecting lives. According to the Indian embassy, the pilot’s health is on an upward trajectory after receiving intensive medical care.