Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke on the phone with Captain Smith Machchar, a pilot for Flydubai. During the conversation, Modi praised Smith for his bravery and presence of mind. He conveyed that the entire country is hoping for Smith’s long life and swift recovery. Modi expressed national pride in Smith’s decision to save passengers’ lives despite sustaining serious injuries.
“The whole nation is praying for you. The Mahamrityunjaya Mantra is being recited across many places,” Modi told Smith. “Your courage, patience, and quick thinking saved many lives.”
The Prime Minister acknowledged that even while critically wounded and fighting for his life, Captain Smith prioritized passenger safety over his own wellbeing. Modi added that Smith’s heroic actions have made 1.4 billion Indians hold their heads high. Smith informed Modi that he had fallen and sustained multiple injuries during the incident. He realized the situation inside the plane was deteriorating. “I felt that if I didn’t get up and act, things would get worse. I have been flying planes for 17 years and have served as captain for the last 11 years,” Smith said.
Captain Smith described how, after a final effort to open the cockpit door, others were able to enter and assist. He emphasized the important roles played by other individuals during the rescue. “I was moving forward to save my life, but I also knew I could not let those people die,” he said. Modi also mentioned his conversations with Smith’s father Bhupendrabhai, mother Geetaben, and wife Sonalben. He praised Geetaben for raising Smith with strong values and thanked the governments of Saudi Arabia and the UAE for their care and treatment of Captain Smith.
Smith stated that he does not see his injuries simply as wounds but as part of a journey towards recovery, expressing confidence that he will fully heal. Modi shared that pujas and prayers for Smith’s long life and speedy recovery are taking place in various parts of the country, including Savarkundla. He added the entire nation is eagerly awaiting Captain Smith’s full return to health.
