Mankind Pharma Announces INR 1 Crore Financial Support for Flydubai Pilot Captain Smit Machchhar
Mankind Pharma has announced INR 1 crore in financial support for Flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and his family, honouring his bravery in averting a mid-air crisis. In an official statement and a letter addressed to Captain Machchhar, Mankind Pharma’s Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Rajeev Juneja, said that some acts of courage stay with an entire nation.
Pharmaceutical major Mankind Pharma has announced financial support of INR 1 crore for flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and his family, honouring his extraordinary bravery during a mid-air cockpit crisis. Captain Machchhar was widely praised for averting a potential aviation disaster after fighting off an attack inside the cockpit on a Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight.
The Mid-Air Crisis
The incident occurred aboard Flydubai flight FZ1073, carrying 174 passengers and eight crew members, when the pilot-in-command faced a sudden security threat inside the cockpit. Despite sustaining serious injuries from a co-pilot attack, Captain Machchhar maintained his composure, managed to unlock the cockpit door, and enabled crew members and passengers to intervene. His swift actions ensured the aircraft was brought under control before landing safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Heroic Indian Pilot Captain Smit Machchhar Recovering Well After Foiling Mid-Air Attack, Says Indian Embassy in UAE.
Mankind Pharma Announces INR 1 Crore Financial Support for Flydubai Pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and Family
Mankind Pharma's Tribute and Official Statement
Recognising his courage, leadership, and humanity, Mankind Pharma announced the INR 1 crore contribution as a gesture of deep respect and gratitude. In an official statement and a letter addressed to Captain Machchhar, Mankind Pharma’s Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Rajeev Juneja, stated, "Some acts of courage stay with an entire nation. In a moment of unimaginable crisis, Capt. Smit Machchhar showed composure and responsibility, and put his crew and every passenger before himself. That is what true leadership looks like".
"As an Indian, we feel immense sense of pride watching an Indian demonstrate such courage, humanity and responsibility before the entire world. No amount of money can ever equal the value of lives you protected or inspiration you have given to millions. This contribution is simply a small expression of our deepest respect, gratitude and admiration for your courage and humanity. Capt. Smit, as an Indian, we salute you. You have made the entire country proud," Juneja said. Salman Khan Praises Flydubai Pilot Smit Machchhar for Courage During Mid-Air Attack.
Juneja further emphasised that appreciation should translate into meaningful action, noting that the financial support stands as a symbol of solidarity with Captain Machchhar and his family following the harrowing ordeal.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 03, 2026 09:12 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
