New Delhi, Oct. 1 -- Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Thursday hailed Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot of flydubai flight FZ1073, for his courage in protecting passengers after he was seriously injured during a mid-air attack aboard an Israel-bound flight, saying he displayed the Indian "spirit of service before self".

In a post on X, Civil Aviation Minister wrote, "Capt. Smit Machchhar has made every Indian proud! His extraordinary courage and presence of mind in the cockpit helped save every life on board. From our skies to skies across the world, Indian pilots have earned respect for their skill, discipline and uncompromising commitment to safety. Salute to Capt. Smit Machchhar for upholding the Indian spirit of serv...