On Thursday (1st October), Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Indian pilot Smit Machchhar, who averted a 9/11-style terror attack while flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
While speaking about his act of bravery, he stated, “The incident that occurred yesterday, Captain Smit of India demonstrated remarkable patience, presence of mind, and courage; indeed, as the Prime Minister of Israel stated today, an Indian prevented a 9/11-style tragedy.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the remarks during the UPSC centenary celebration, which was held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
#WATCH | Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "… The incident that occurred yesterday, Captain Smit of India demonstrated remarkable patience, presence of mind, and courage; indeed, as the Prime Minister of Israel stated today, an Indian prevented a 9/11-style tragedy."… https://t.co/mirnEuyxzs pic.twitter.com/Q3JyfmnhOc
— ANI (@ANI) October 1, 2026
Earlier in the day, the Indian Prime Minister tweeted, “Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO. In the face of the gravest danger and despite being seriously injured, he showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others.”
Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 1, 2026
In the face of the gravest danger and despite being seriously injured, he showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others.
His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy.
India is proud of…
“His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy. Praying for his speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health,” PM Modi tweeted.
For the unversed, Smit Machchhar saved the lives of 178 passengers onboard a flydubai Boeing 737 MAX while flying to Tel Aviv. His co-pilot, identified as Indian national, wanted to crash the plane and kill everyone.
The Indian pilot showed exemplary courage and overpowered the accused with the help of the crew and the passengers despite being stabbed. His timely action successully averted a 9/11-style terror attack

