Smit Machchhar, an Indian pilot employed by flydubai, has publicly recounted an alleged mid-flight altercation involving his co-pilot during a journey from Dubai to Tel Aviv. According to Machchhar, the incident began when the Omani co-pilot requested permission to perform prayers within the cockpit. Machchhar stated that he agreed to the request and was focused on his duties when the co-pilot allegedly approached him from behind and struck him.

Machchhar described the experience as sudden, stating, "I didn't know what hit me." The pilot’s account suggests that the attack was unprovoked and occurred while he was distracted by flight operations. As of now, the details regarding the specific injuries sustained or the subsequent actions taken by the flight crew to secure the aircraft remain limited. The report focuses primarily on the pilot's personal recollection of the event rather than an official airline statement or a broader investigation report. Flydubai has not yet provided a comprehensive public response detailing their internal findings or the status of the co-pilot involved in the incident.