Captain Smit Machchhar's in-laws on Saturday, 3 October 2026, said the family was moved to tears watching Prime Minister Narendra Modi speak to the injured flydubai pilot on Friday, expressing deep gratitude for the outpouring of nationwide support for the young aviator who saved over 170 lives mid-flight.

The Incident That Made Capt Machchhar a National Hero

The pilot became widely recognised after he single-handedly averted a catastrophe aboard flydubai flight FZ1073, which was attacked by the co-pilot mid-flight. Despite being assaulted, Machchhar managed to keep the aircraft under control, ultimately enabling a diversion to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. He sustained serious injuries during the ordeal, including a fractured hand, deep wounds, and cuts requiring stitches across multiple parts of his body.

Family Speaks: 'He Will Recover Gradually'

Machchhar's sister-in-law Neerava Jogi said the family had been overwhelmed by the volume of support pouring in from across the country. 'We are receiving a lot of appreciation and are quite overwhelmed by it... We sincerely thank everyone for all the love and prayers he is receiving. We feel very humbled,' she said.

She confirmed the family had spoken to the pilot and that he was stable. 'The first 24 to 36 hours were very stressful as no family member could meet him. But once they met him, everyone felt relieved. He has several deep wounds, but he will recover gradually,' she added.

PM Modi's Call Leaves Pilot Emotional

When asked about Prime Minister Modi's conversation with Machchhar, Neerava Jogi said: 'Everyone became very emotional when PM Modi spoke to him.'

The pilot's father-in-law Jaysukh Jogi described his son-in-law's reaction. 'The entire family was delighted to speak with Modi ji. Smit himself became very emotional; he said that Modi ji is his role model. We all watched that video and were overjoyed,' he said. He added that the family was initially anxious upon learning of the incident but is now relieved that Machchhar's condition is stable. 'The Almighty saved him,' he said. Jaysukh Jogi also extended formal thanks: 'We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Government of India, Modi ji, and the entire media fraternity.'

BJP MLA Visits Family in Mumbai

Separately, BJP MLA Atul Bhatkhalkar visited Machchhar's in-laws at their Mumbai residence on Saturday. Machchhar's brother-in-law Ankit Jogi said the visit was a source of pride for the family. 'It is a matter of great pride for us that the MLA has visited our home today... He assured us that he would be available to help us whenever we need anything,' he said. Jaysukh Jogi echoed the sentiment, noting that the MLA had always been known to stand by people in their time of need.

What Happens Next

Machchhar remains under medical care following surgery for his injuries. With the pilot's condition described as stable and improving, the focus now shifts to his recovery and the ongoing inquiry into the co-pilot's conduct aboard FZ1073. The incident has sparked renewed discussion about cockpit security protocols in commercial aviation.