Mumbai, October 3 (Daily Kiran) : Captain Smita Machhar’s family expressed pride in her heroic actions during a recent incident on FlyDubai flight FZ1073. Despite being attacked by her co-pilot, Machhar managed to save the lives of all passengers on board. Her uncle, Kishorbhai Machhar, stated that while he has not spoken directly with her, he learned from her father that her condition is now stable.
“I plan to visit her in Dubai once she is discharged from the hospital. We just want her to come home, and then we will celebrate together,” he remarked.
Kishorbhai emphasized that this incident sends a powerful message about aviation. “It’s not just a glamorous industry; the safety of passengers must always come first. Smita’s courageous act will serve as an inspiration for aspiring pilots,” he added.
On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Captain Machhar via video call, during which she revealed that she repeatedly chanted the ‘Hanuman Chalisa’ while battling the assailant co-pilot.
Her aunt, Sonal Machhar, shared that the family has a tradition of listening to the ‘Hanuman Chalisa’ to soothe children to sleep. “Since childhood, we have played the ‘Hanuman Chalisa’ at night. In the morning, everyone takes blessings from the temple in our home, where we also keep the ‘Hanuman Chalisa,'” she explained.
Sonal revealed that Smita had initially planned to join the family’s textile business, where her cousins also work for FlyDubai. However, they surprised the family by expressing their desire to pursue aviation instead. “At first, we were shocked, but we supported them. They studied in New Zealand and have made great progress,” she said.
Regarding a meeting with Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, Sonal mentioned that Devendra Fadnavis reassured them and prayed for Smita’s swift recovery. He also offered assistance if needed.
Smita’s cousin, Pooja Ganatra, recounted the family’s initial uncertainty about her involvement in the incident. “My brother also works for FlyDubai. He called to inform me that Smita had been injured. The family was understandably distressed. I informed our parents and ensured that Smita’s parents were sent to Dubai to meet her. She is now stable,” Pooja said.
Ganatra, who heads the Mumbai-based FlyBy Aviation Academy, described Smita’s bravery as a moment of pride for the entire world. “This is certainly a proud moment globally, but for us as a family, it is deeply emotional. We can only pray for her quick recovery and hope she returns home soon,” she concluded.
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