NEW DELHI, India / RankWire.AI / – Prime Minister Narendra Modi connected with Captain Smit Machchhar to acknowledge his brave actions during a serious aviation emergency. Modi held a video call with the pilot on Friday to check on his recovery and thank him publicly. During their discussion, Modi praised Machchhar for showing exceptional bravery, emotional strength, and quick decision-making, all while prioritizing passenger safety over his own. The detailed statement from the Press Information Bureau of India confirmed this official communication on Oct. 2, 2026.
The call took place on Gandhi Jayanti, the national holiday marking Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary. Modi pointed out that the timing was symbolic, as Machchhar’s selfless act reflected core values of non-violence and service to others. He emphasized that the pilot’s courage brought great honor to India’s 1.4 billion citizens. Modi added that Indians can be proud of their commitment to saving lives. He also said that Machchhar’s prompt response boosted the reputation of Indian pilots worldwide, highlighting their professionalism on the global stage.
Captain Machchhar recounted the events of the incident, drawing on his 17 years of aviation experience. He explained how his background helped him realize immediately that the aircraft was descending dangerously. Despite severe injuries and being physically trapped in the cockpit, he pushed himself to open the exit door. This effort allowed passengers to escape safely. Machchhar shared that he found strength and spiritual focus by reciting prayers during the life-threatening situation.
Prime Minister Modi Discusses Emergency Response with Captain Smit Machchhar
While speaking with Machchhar about his well-being, Modi also discussed his medical treatment in the Middle East. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the governments of Saudi Arabia and Emirates for providing medical care and emergency support during his hospital stay. Modi appreciated the support from local authorities and medical teams in both countries. Machchhar spoke positively about the care he received abroad, saying it was crucial in stabilizing his condition before continuing rehabilitation.
Modi also spoke personally with Machchhar’s family, recognizing their steadfast support. He praised his mother, Geeta bahen, for instilling strong values and spiritual resilience rooted in Indian philosophy. He commended his father, Bhupendra bhai, and wife, Sonalbahen, for maintaining calm and faith during the crisis. The conversation became more personal when Modi, speaking in Gujarati, asked about Machchhar’s young children, Bobby and Jiwa, and expressed admiration for the family’s strength.
Heroic Pilot’s Actions During Crisis Save Lives and Garner Public Support
Modi highlighted the widespread support across India following the news of Machchhar’s recovery. Communities organized prayers, gatherings, and cultural events in places like Savarkundla and Wadhwan to wish him well. Modi observed that the country united emotionally around the pilot’s recovery. Machchhar shared that he now recites spiritual prayers daily with his two-year-old son to stay connected with his family and cultural roots while healing.
At the end of the call, Modi reaffirmed India’s full support and offered personal reassurance for Machchhar’s continued recovery. He expressed his desire to meet the pilot in person once his health permits. Modi wished him a quick and complete recovery, emphasizing that the entire nation stands behind him and his family. The discussion concluded with mutual goodwill, emphasizing unity, resilience, and respect for the pilot’s heroic actions in saving lives.