Captain Smit Machar’s health improves, recovering after surgery

New Delhi: There is reassuring news about Indian pilot Captain Smit Machar, who was injured in an attack by the co-pilot aboard a flydubai flight. His condition is gradually improving following surgery at a hospital in Abu Dhabi, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said Captain Machar is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Abu Dhabi. The Indian Embassy in the UAE is in regular contact with his family, doctors, hospital authorities and local officials and is closely monitoring his health.

A Gujarat resident, Machar has extensive experience in aviation. He joined SpiceJet in 2011 and has worked as a pilot as well as in training-related roles. He is also experienced in flying Boeing 737 aircraft.

Machar’s courage and presence of mind during the flydubai incident have drawn widespread praise. Despite being seriously injured in the co-pilot’s attack, he managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and other crew members to enter.

His action helped avert a major crisis and protect the lives of the 174 passengers on board. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also praised Machar’s bravery, calling him a “hero” and saying the entire country is proud of his courage and valour.

Referring to the incident, Modi said that while the world is currently talking about the courage of Indian pilots, a time will come when the world will also talk about ‘Made in India’ aircraft.

With Captain Machar continuing his recovery in Abu Dhabi, attention remains focused on his health, with people across the country hoping for his speedy recovery.