A flight emergency that struck fear into all aboard has now culminated in an international recognition of Flydubai Captain Smit Machchhar. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will light a ceremonial flame to celebrate Israel’s next Independence Day. The invite was extended after Machchhar was lauded for his bravery following a major cockpit attack on a flight to Tel Aviv from Dubai aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073.
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Why did Benjamin Netanyahu invite Smit Machchhar and PM Modi?
A telephone call later from MK Netanyahu to Machchhar, the pilot, praised the pilot’s of the pilot, likening him to a hero of India, Israel, and the world at large. He then asked the pilot and Modi to come to ignite a celebratory flame at the Jewish State’s Independence Day. The invitation had a special meaning as the annual torch-lighting ceremony on Independence Day is typically linked with people who have made a mark on Israeli society. “This is one of the highest awards given at the torch-lighting event,” Netanyahu said.
What happened aboard the Flydubai flight?
The incident occurred on board Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv, during which Machchhar reportedly told Netanyahu that he was unexpectedly assaulted by his co-pilot in the cockpit. Despite injuries and the uncontrolled emergency, Machchhar was able to open the cockpit door, allowing others outside to come in and help overwhelm the attacker. The aircraft made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Why does the Independence Day flame matter?
Israel’s Independence Day can be seen at the traditional ceremony of Mount Herzl. The ceremony is part of the Independence Day of the State of Israel. The holders are awarded during the ceremony. “For Machchhar, the proposed invitation serves as an acknowledgment after the extraordinary aviation. Moreover, the occasion has a broader India-Israel flavor, with Netanyahu attempting to coordinate the Indian pilot with PM Modi for the occasion.
