Shah Rukh Khan has joined several Bollywood celebrities in praising Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian flydubai pilot who was seriously injured during a dramatic incident aboard a Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight.
Taking to social media, Shah Rukh praised the captain for remaining strong during an extremely dangerous situation and putting the safety of passengers before his own. His message quickly drew attention as several celebrities also came forward to acknowledge Machchhar’s courage.
SRK described the pilot’s actions as a powerful example of what it means to take responsibility as a captain, while also wishing him a speedy recovery.
What Did Shah Rukh Khan Say?
In his message, Shah Rukh Khan highlighted how Captain Machchhar continued to protect the people onboard despite facing serious danger himself.
The actor wrote that Machchhar “stood strong when it mattered the most” and praised his decision to put his own safety on the line to protect those travelling on the aircraft. He described the incident as a true display of courage and duty and ended his message by saying that the country is proud of him.
The words from one of India’s biggest film stars added another layer of public recognition to the growing tributes for the pilot.
The Flydubai Flight Incident
Captain Smit Machchhar was reportedly operating flydubai flight FZ1073, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, on September 30.
According to reports, an altercation took place inside the cockpit involving the captain and his co-pilot. Machchhar was seriously injured during the incident, while the aircraft experienced a rapid descent.
Despite his injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door, allowing crew members and passengers to intervene. The aircraft was subsequently diverted and landed safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. The flight was carrying 174 people, including 27 children, according to NDTV’s report.
Captain Smit Machchhar’s Courage Gets Wide Recognition
Shah Rukh Khan is not the only Bollywood star to praise the pilot.
Several prominent actors, including Salman Khan, Ranveer Singh, Vicky Kaushal, Sunny Deol and Tamannaah Bhatia, have also acknowledged Machchhar’s actions and wished him a speedy recovery. Anil Kapoor, R. Madhavan, Paresh Rawal, Vijay Deverakonda, Sonam Kapoor, Raveena Tandon, Shilpa Shetty and others have also shared tributes.
Salman Khan, in his own message, saluted Captain Machchhar and said it would be a pleasure to fly with him.
PM Modi Also Praised the Pilot
Captain Machchhar’s actions have received recognition beyond the film industry.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the pilot’s courage and described him as a hero. Modi also spoke with Machchhar and his family and wished him a speedy recovery.
The Prime Minister said Machchhar’s courage and presence of mind helped save lives and avert a major tragedy.
President Droupadi Murmu has also praised the captain’s courage, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described him as a true hero.
Who Is Smit Machchhar?
Captain Smit Machchhar is an experienced Indian commercial pilot who has worked in the aviation industry for more than a decade.
According to Reuters, Machchhar worked with SpiceJet for around 11 years before joining flydubai in 2022. He has accumulated nearly 9,750 flying hours and has experience flying Boeing 737 aircraft.
Interestingly, aviation was not initially his career plan. He had studied textile engineering with the intention of joining his family's business before discovering aviation at the age of 19.
A Moment That Has Touched Bollywood
Captain Machchhar’s story has resonated strongly across India, including within Bollywood. Shah Rukh Khan’s tribute reflects the wider public appreciation for the pilot, whose actions during a dangerous mid-air incident have received praise from celebrities, political leaders and aviation circles.
As Machchhar continues his recovery, messages from stars like Shah Rukh Khan have added to the nationwide support being expressed for the pilot.
For now, the biggest wish shared by his supporters remains simple: a speedy and complete recovery for Captain Smit Machchhar.
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