Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Captain Smit Machchhar for his bravery and upholding the principle of non-violence during an emergency landing.
On October 2, 2026, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi interacted with Captain Smit Machchhar through a video call. The Prime Minister inquired about his health and expressed gratitude for the pilot's courage and swift decision-making during an emergency landing. He emphasized that the Captain's actions, despite sustaining severe injuries, prioritizing the safety of passengers over his own life, enhanced the honor of 140 crore countrymen. The Prime Minister recalled his conversation with the pilot's family members and praised Geeta bahen for instilling profound cultural values into her son. During the call, Captain Smit recounted how seventeen years of flying experience helped him realize the aircraft was going down, and he described the harrowing moment of making a final push to open the door, despite being heavily trapped and wounded. He deeply appreciated the Captain drawing spiritual strength from reciting the Hanuman Chalisa during his struggle for survival. The Prime Minister acknowledged that the Captain becoming emotional after enduring such a struggle is an entirely natural response. He highlighted the widespread emotional solidarity across the nation, noting special prayers and aartis being conducted for the pilot's longevity. He lauded the Captain's resolve to view his recovery as a patient journey, appreciating his daily recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa with his two-year-old son to stay connected to Indian culture. The Prime Minister extended heartfelt gratitude to the governments of Saudi Arabia and the UAE for providing outstanding medical care. He noted that the Captain's actions protected the dignity and standing of all Indian pilots globally, stating, 'Today is Gandhi Jayanti; what the true essence of non-violence is, you have demonstrated by living it.' The Prime Minister conversed affectionately in Gujarati, inquiring after the Captain's young children and expressing profound admiration for the pilot's parents and his wife. He assured the Captain that he remains just a phone call away and promised to listen to the inside details of the incident once they meet in person. He wished him a complete and speedy recovery while emphasizing that the entire country stands firmly with him.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
