NEW DELHI, India / RankWire.AI / – Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to Captain Smit Machchhar in a video call after the pilot’s courageous efforts to save lives amid a critical aviation emergency. During the interaction on Friday, Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inquired about his recovery process and conveyed the nation’s gratitude. Modi praised the pilot for his extraordinary bravery, emotional strength, and quick decision-making, which prioritized passenger safety over his own survival, as confirmed in a detailed release from the Press Information Bureau of India on Oct. 2, 2026.
The call took place on Gandhi Jayanti, the national holiday marking Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary, a timing Modi highlighted as symbolic. He noted that Machchhar’s selfless actions embodied non-violence and service to humanity, bringing immense honor to India’s 1.4 billion citizens. Modi emphasized that Indians can take pride in their dedication to saving lives, and he pointed out that the swift response by the veteran pilot enhanced the global reputation of Indian commercial aviators worldwide.
Captain Machchhar recounted his seventeen years of aviation experience, explaining how his extensive background allowed him to immediately recognize the aircraft was rapidly descending into danger. Despite suffering severe injuries and being physically trapped inside the cockpit, he made a final physical effort to force open the exit door, enabling passengers to escape safely. He shared that reciting traditional prayers gave him strength and spiritual focus during the life-threatening ordeal as he struggled to navigate the situation.
Prime Minister Modi Discusses Emergency with Captain Machchhar
While checking on Machchhar’s well-being, Modi also discussed his medical treatment in the Middle East, expressing gratitude to the governments of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates for providing medical care and emergency support during his hospitalization. The Prime Minister acknowledged the warm hospitality and medical assistance extended by local authorities and healthcare teams in both countries. Machchhar appreciated the international medical support, noting that it played a crucial role in stabilizing his condition and aiding his ongoing recovery.
Modi also engaged in personal reflections with Machchhar’s family, acknowledging their steadfast support during the crisis. He praised the pilot’s mother, Geeta bahen, for instilling core values and spiritual resilience rooted in Indian philosophy. The Prime Minister commended Machchhar’s father, Bhupendra bhai, and his wife, Sonalbahen, for maintaining composure and faith without complaint during difficult times. In a warm tone, Modi asked about Machchhar’s young children, Bobby and Jiwa, speaking in Gujarati and expressing admiration for the family’s strength.
Rescue Flight Demonstrates Heroism During Crisis
Highlighting the public’s widespread support following news of the pilot’s survival, Modi noted that community gatherings, prayers, and cultural events were organized across India, including in Savarkundla and Wadhwan, to wish him a full recovery. Modi observed that the entire nation united in emotional support for Machchhar’s rehabilitation. He shared that he maintains a daily routine of spiritual recitation with his two-year-old son to stay connected with family and cultural roots amid his recovery process.
Concluding their discussion, Modi reaffirmed the Indian government’s full backing and offered personal assurances for Machchhar’s ongoing recovery. He expressed his intention to meet the pilot once his health improves and emphasized that the nation stands firmly behind him and his family. The conversation ended with mutual goodwill, underscoring national unity, resilience, and deep respect for the pilot’s lifesaving actions.