Flydubai Cockpit Attack: Pilot Hailed, UAE Calls It Terrorism

In October 2026, an attack occurred in the cockpit of a Flydubai flight. Indian pilot Smit Machchhar opened the cockpit door during the attack and later told Indian Prime Minister Modi that he was fighting for his life. A UAE presidential adviser called the incident a terrorist act and praised the pilot. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu warned that those responsible would pay a very heavy price if the co-pilot was acting on orders.