Modi praises Flydubai hero: "Prevented a 9/11-style tragedy"

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Captain Smith Cheshar, a Flydubai pilot injured in the FZ1073 flight incident, calling him a hero. Modi said the pilot prevented a 9/11-style tragedy, spoke with his family, and called for prayers for his recovery.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Captain Smith Cheshar, a Flydubai pilot, during a speech at an event marking the centenary of India's Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in New Delhi. Modi said the pilot displayed exceptional patience, composure, and courage, and that according to the Israeli Prime Minister, he prevented a 9/11-style tragedy. Modi said he spoke with the pilot's parents, Bhupendra and Geeta, and his wife Sonal, and called on Indian citizens to pray for his recovery. The incident occurred on Flydubai flight FZ1073, which was en route from Dubai to Israel. According to reports, the co-pilot attacked Cheshar in the cockpit, suspected of trying to crash the plane. Despite his injury, Cheshar fought him and helped open the cockpit door, and crew and passengers subdued the suspect. The plane was diverted and made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. There were 174 people on board, mostly Israelis, and no one was killed. Cheshar was evacuated for medical treatment in Saudi Arabia and his condition is stable. The suspect was arrested and the investigation continues.