Indian Pilot Injured in Flydubai Attack Hailed as Hero

Captain Smit Mahar, a seasoned Indian pilot with 15 years of experience and nearly 9,750 flight hours on Boeing 737s, was seriously injured on Wednesday during a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The incident occurred when the Omani co-pilot allegedly attacked Mahar in an attempt to seize control of the aircraft.

Mahar, who previously flew for SpiceJet in India and joined Flydubai in 2022, also serves as a flight instructor. In a previous interview, he emphasized the critical role of cabin crew in emergencies, stating, "When things go wrong, you need them. They can save your life."

Following the attack, Mahar managed to open the cockpit door despite his injuries, allowing passengers and crew to subdue the assailant. Dr. Shota Musayev, who treated Mahar, reported that the pilot sustained multiple stab wounds and significant blood loss. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Mahar as a "true hero" for his bravery, crediting him with preventing a major aerial disaster and saving the lives of 174 people, including Israeli citizens.

The aircraft made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia confirmed they are monitoring Mahar's condition, and he is currently hospitalized in Tabuk in stable condition. The alleged attacker was subdued by passengers and crew.