The invitation also includes Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is invited to accompany Machchhar to the event in Israel. During a recent discussion with Netanyahu, the pilot recounted the details of the cockpit struggle and the attempt to seize control of the aircraft.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
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Netanyahu Invites Indian Pilot to Light Independence Day Torch After Hijack Foil
World17 days ago
Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian pilot for Flydubai, managed to prevent a hijacking after being physically assaulted in the cockpit of flight FZ1073. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has since extended an invitation to the captain to ignite a ceremonial flame during the nation's Independence Day celebrations, describing Machchhar as "a hero for Israel, India and the entire world."
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