What happened
A Flydubai plane was involved in a serious security incident on Wednesday when the co-pilot allegedly attempted to crash the aircraft after stabbing the pilot, Smit Machchhar. Despite being seriously injured, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to overpower the co-pilot. The plane, which was carrying 174 people, including Israeli citizens and other nationals, was diverted to Saudi Arabia and landed safely.
The incident occurred when the co-pilot stabbed Machchhar and sent the plane plunging nearly 14,000 feet in less than 30 seconds. However, Machchhar, who was covered in blood, was able to click the release to open the cockpit door, enabling passengers and crew to intervene and prevent a potential disaster.
The plane was en route from the United Arab Emirates to Israel when the incident occurred. The co-pilot's motives for the alleged attempt to crash the plane are not yet clear, and an investigation is underway. Flydubai has suspended flights to and from Israel pending the outcome of the investigation.
Indian pilot Smit Machchhar has been hailed as a hero by the leaders of Israel and India, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for his bravery in saving the lives of the passengers. Machchhar is currently receiving medical attention in a hospital in Saudi Arabia and is reported to be stable.
