Smit Machchhar was injured in the cockpit of flight FZ1073 after an attack by the co-pilot. India’s embassy in the UAE said he is making steady progress.
Flydubai captain Smit Machchhar suffered a depressed skull fracture after being struck with an axe in the cockpit of flight FZ1073. The Times of India reported that he underwent emergency surgery in Saudi Arabia before being flown to the UAE for further treatment.
Neurosurgeon Krishan Kumar Yadav told the newspaper that a depressed fracture pushes part of the skull inward toward the brain. Surgery involves lifting or removing the fragment, checking the protective membrane around the brain and repairing any damage. India’s embassy in the UAE said on October 6 that Machchhar was making steady progress and that it remained in contact with his family, doctors and local authorities.
Machchhar previously said the co-pilot had asked to pray. Four or five minutes later, he felt heavy blows to the back of his head. He first thought there was a problem with the aircraft, then realised the co-pilot was attacking him. His vision blurred and he noticed the plane descending sharply. Earlier reports by The Associated Press and Anadolu Agency described the attack and how crew members and passengers helped stop the co-pilot. Investigators are examining the circumstances and motive.