DUBAI — In a harrowing account of survival and resilience, Captain Smit Machchhar, pilot of Flydubai flight FZ1073, revealed how he summoned a final surge of strength while lying injured on the floor to rescue passengers during a horrific attack on board.
“I was lying on the floor injured, but I told myself to go for one last push to open the door from inside,” Machchhar shared during a video call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Reflecting on the critical moments as the aircraft began sinking under active assault, Machchhar emphasized the collective effort and determination that saved lives. “Others came in and also played a role in controlling the situation. I was of course fighting for my own life, but at the same time I knew I was not going to let others die,” he said.
United Arab Emirates presidential adviser Anwar Gargash officially designated the crisis aboard flight FZ1073 as a “terrorist act,” condemning the assault as details continue to emerge regarding the heroic actions of the crew and passengers.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the full circumstances surrounding the attack.
