Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot whose actions helped avert a major aviation disaster aboard flydubai flight FZ1073, is recovering steadily in a hospital in the UAE, according to India’s Ambassador to the UAE, Deepak Mittal.

The ambassador visited the injured pilot and his family and said he was reassured by Machchhar’s condition. According to Mittal, the pilot was talking, smiling and even laughing, reflecting a high level of morale despite the ordeal he recently endured.

Speaking after the visit, Mittal said Machchhar remains under close medical supervision and is receiving excellent care at the UAE hospital. He noted that while the pilot continues to experience some discomfort, his overall condition is stable and encouraging.

The envoy described Machchhar as a “brave son of India” and praised his courage during the mid-air emergency, stating that his actions helped save hundreds of lives and prevented what could have become a catastrophic incident.

Mittal also met the pilot’s family, who are with him during his recovery. He said the visit was facilitated with support from the UAE authorities and highlighted the quality of healthcare being provided.

According to the ambassador, the Indian Embassy remains in constant contact with UAE officials to ensure that Machchhar receives every possible form of assistance and the best available medical treatment throughout his recovery.

Machchhar was commanding flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv when a violent incident reportedly unfolded inside the cockpit. The pilot was allegedly stabbed by his co-pilot, who is accused of attempting to seize control of the aircraft during the flight.

Despite suffering serious injuries, Machchhar managed to unlock the cockpit door, allowing cabin crew, passengers and other personnel on board to intervene. The aircraft was subsequently diverted and landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, preventing further escalation of the crisis.

He was initially treated at a hospital in Tabuk before being transferred to the UAE for further medical care.

The incident has attracted international attention, with widespread praise for the pilot's composure, professionalism and bravery under extreme circumstances. Reports surrounding the case indicate that his actions were instrumental in ensuring the safety of all those aboard the aircraft.

Earlier, the Gujarat government announced that it would honour the pilot for his extraordinary courage.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said Captain Machchhar would receive the prestigious Visisht Gujarat Garima Award in recognition of his efforts in safeguarding the lives of 174 passengers during the attack.

The Chief Minister said the pilot’s bravery is being recognised across the world and praised him for continuing to fight to save passengers despite sustaining severe injuries.

Calling him a “valiant son of Gujarat”, Patel said the pilot had brought immense pride to both Gujarat and India through his heroism. He added that people across the state are praying for Machchhar’s speedy recovery and that the thoughts and prayers of citizens throughout the country are with him as he continues to recover.

The recognition from Gujarat adds to a growing wave of appreciation for the pilot, whose presence of mind and determination during one of the most serious in-flight emergencies in recent aviation memory have earned admiration both in India and abroad.