Flydubai Pilot Attacked With Axe in Cockpit, Suffers Severe Vision Loss

More details have emerged about the attack on Indian pilot Captain Smit Machhar inside the cockpit of a Flydubai flight. Machhar was allegedly attacked with an axe by Omani co-pilot Hamam Al-Hammami, suffering a severe skull fracture as well as serious injuries to his head and hand. The impact is also believed to have affected his optic nerves, impairing his vision. During a recent conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Machhar reportedly described how he tried to stop the attacker but nearly lost his vision after the initial blows, leaving everything appearing completely blurred.

After the aircraft landed in Saudi Arabia, Machhar received treatment for his skull injury before being transferred to the UAE for further medical care. He is currently recovering at a specialised medical centre in Abu Dhabi and has reportedly started walking short distances and eating. Sources said he is suffering from severe headaches and is being given sedative and pain-relief medication, while doctors are monitoring his neurological functions as the injuries have also affected his memory. Machhar reportedly hopes to return to flying once his vision fully recovers, with doctors paying particular attention to his eyesight and long-term ability to continue his career as a pilot. UAE investigators have also reportedly recorded his preliminary statement.