“Captain Machchhar is a hero. While gravely wounded, he fought off a terrorist attack and saved every soul on that plane, including 27 children and four Americans,” Gottheimer said.
“Congress must honour his extraordinary courage, and we must be clear that this was an act of terrorism and an attack on the safety of international air travel. I’m proud to lead this resolution with Congressman McCaul and Congressman Bacon, and we wish Captain Machchhar and everyone injured a full recovery,” he added.
McCaul, who co-led the resolution, said it condemns the attempted attack, calls for a full investigation and recognises the courage of the crew and passengers.
“I’m proud to co-lead this resolution, which condemns the attempted terrorist attack, calls for a full investigation, and honours the brave crew and passengers. The world owes a debt of gratitude to these heroes — especially Captain Smit Machchhar, who sustained injuries fighting the attacker and still managed to unlock the cockpit door and allow others to land the plane,” McCaul said in a statement.
“Were it not for his extraordinary courage, this story could have ended in horrific tragedy. I wish Captain Machchhar, the crew, and all the passengers healing and strength as we await a comprehensive investigation into this harrowing incident,” he added.
What happened aboard Flydubai Flight 1073?
Machchhar was captaining Flydubai Flight 1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv when his Omani co-pilot, Hamam al-Hammami, allegedly attacked him with a crash axe inside the cockpit.
During the struggle, the aircraft reportedly lost altitude rapidly, raising fears of a catastrophic crash.
Despite suffering serious injuries, Machchhar managed to open the cockpit door and alert those on board. Passengers and crew members then rushed into the cockpit and subdued the attacker.
Other pilots aboard the aircraft subsequently took control of the plane and safely landed it in Saudi Arabia.
Global praise for Indian Captain
Machchhar's actions have drawn praise from leaders around the world, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump.
The US congressional resolution seeks to formally recognise Machchhar's courage, as well as the actions of the crew and passengers who helped prevent what could have been a major aviation tragedy.