India, Oct. 1 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar as a "HERO" after his actions during a dramatic mid-air cockpit confrontation on a Flydubai flight helped avert what officials described as a potentially catastrophic incident.

"Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO," Modi said in a post on X on Thursday. He praised Machchhar for showing "immense courage" and "an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others" despite being seriously injured.

"His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy. India is proud of Captain Machchhar," Modi added, while praying for the pilot's speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health.

The incident took place on September 30 aboard Flydubai f...