“Do something, Smit. You can’t die like this”: Capt Machchhar recounts cockpit attack in flydubai flight

Two hours into a Dubai to Tel Aviv flight, flydubai commander Capt Smit Machchhar reported a violent attack in the cockpit when his co-pilot struck him repeatedly, inflicting bleeding and impaired vision. He described the moment as unexpected and described thinking there was a structural failure before realizing the blows came from the other pilot.

The incident occurred on flight FZ1073, which diverted and landed in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, after the attack took place in mid-flight. Machchhar said the aircraft subsequently entered a rapid descent as the assault continued and the crew grappled with maintaining control.

Machchhar relayed that he managed to open the cockpit door with the help of a relief captain who had been in the area, and he later lost consciousness due to blood loss. He recalled hearing shouting among crew and passengers as the plane continued to descend and then leveled off before landing.

In the days following the event, Machchhar has spoken about his fragmented memory and ongoing medical and psychological follow-up. He credited his colleagues for taking control of the aircraft and helping to avert disaster, noting that everyone on board contributed to the safe outcome.

Machchhar said he remembered the moment he decided to fight to stay alive, telling himself, “Smit, do something. You can’t die like this,” as he pressed toward the door and remained conscious until the plane touched down. He has since started to recover and can currently sit and converse, according to his account.