NIA registers case in flydubai incident where Omani co-pilot stabbed Indian captain Smit Machchhar

Download AppNewsIndiaNIA registers case over Omani co-pilot stabbing Smit Machchhar on flyDubai The Centre has directed the NIA to investigate an attack on Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar aboard FlyDubai Flight 1073 on September 30. The Omani first officer reportedly stabbed him during an apparent hijack or crash attempt.Captain Machchhar sustained deep cuts to his head and hands, according to the information cited in the government order. (Credits: Reuters)Oct 10, 2026 15:53 ISTThe National Investigation Agency (NIA) has been directed by the Central Government to register a case and investigate an attack on Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar aboard a FlyDubai flight, after the aircraft reportedly made a sharp dive and turned back into Saudi airspace following an altercation inside the cockpit.According to information cited by the Central Government, FlyDubai Flight 1073, piloted by Indian national Captain Smit Machchhar and an Omani first officer, departed from Dubai on September 30 at 7:05 am Gulf Standard Time (GST), carrying 174 passengers and six crew members.The aircraft was flying near the Jordan-Saudi Arabia border when it reportedly made a rapid dive and turned back towards Saudi airspace.- Ends