Heroic Flydubai pilot earns Bollywood’s salute.

Ajay Devgn, SRK, Salman Khan and others hail Captain Smit Machchhar’s courage.

Bollywood stars have united in praise for Captain Smit Machchhar, the flydubai pilot who displayed extraordinary bravery during a mid-air crisis that endangered 174 passengers. Ajay Devgn led the tributes, calling Machchhar “a hero in every sense of the word” after the pilot survived a violent attack by his co-pilot while flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Despite being stabbed, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, enabling crew and passengers to intervene and regain control of the aircraft.

Ajay Devgn shared his admiration on X, writing that Machchhar’s actions exemplified true courage and wishing him a speedy recovery. Shah Rukh Khan echoed his sentiments, praising the pilot for putting passenger safety above his own life and calling the act “a true display of courage and duty.” Salman Khan added his salute, remarking, “Kamaal kar diya pilot ji, hum sab aap ko salute karte hain,” and said he’d love to fly with him someday.

Karan Johar reflected on the pilot’s resilience, noting that it took immense strength to fight for his own survival while safeguarding others. Vicky Kaushal called Machchhar a “braveheart,” and Ranveer Singh described him as “courageous.” Other actors, including Paresh Rawal, R Madhavan, Vijay Deverakonda, and Ravi Kishan, also extended heartfelt wishes for his recovery.

The incident occurred on September 30 aboard flydubai flight FZ1073, a Boeing 737 MAX 8 carrying 174 people, including 27 children. While flying over Saudi Arabia, Machchhar was attacked inside the cockpit. Severely injured, he still managed to unlock the door, allowing passengers, crew, and two off-duty pilots onboard to overpower the assailant and stabilize the situation. The aircraft was diverted safely to Tabuk airport in Saudi Arabia, where Machchhar was rushed to hospital.

From his hospital bed, the captain later recounted his ordeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, explaining how he overcame his injuries to ensure others could step in and prevent disaster. His actions have since drawn global recognition, with leaders and celebrities alike honouring his courage.

Captain Smit Machchhar’s bravery has not only saved lives but also inspired millions. In the face of unimaginable danger, he demonstrated the highest standards of duty and resilience, earning the admiration of both the aviation community and the film fraternity. His story reminds us that true heroism lies in selfless acts of courage.