Indian embassy in Saudi Arabia monitors pilot Smit Mashar’s condition after Flydubai incident

The Indian embassy in Saudi Arabia has confirmed it is monitoring the health of Indian pilot Smit Mashar, who was transferred to a hospital in Tabuk, northwestern Saudi Arabia, to receive necessary medical care.

The embassy stated it is awaiting a comprehensive update on his condition, noting that initial reports indicate his status is stable.

It added that it is in contact with Mashar’s family and will continue to follow his case in coordination with Saudi authorities, standing by his family during his treatment.

The Flydubai flight to Israel saw passengers and crew foil an attempt by the co-pilot to crash the plane, after the co-pilot stabbed the captain, causing the aircraft to plunge nearly 14,000 feet in less than 30 seconds.

Israeli officials said passengers and crew entered the cockpit, subdued the co-pilot, and allowed two other Flydubai pilots on board to safely land the plane in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

Flydubai said in a statement that the reasons behind the incident remain unknown and warned against "premature speculation." An Israeli official identified the co-pilot as an Omani national. Oman has not yet commented.