In a heartfelt interview, Flydubai pilot Smit Matchar expressed profound gratitude towards the United Arab Emirates for the medical care he received following a dramatic incident during a flight. He highlighted the overwhelming support from the UAE government, emphasising that the level of care he experienced will remain etched in his memory for the rest of his life.
A Life-Altering Incident
During a conversation with “Sky News Arabia”, Matchar recounted the harrowing moments he faced inside the cockpit of a Boeing 737, vividly recalling the incident that led him to believe he might not survive. He was performing his duties while his co-pilot prayed behind him, and out of respect, he tried not to glance in that direction.
The Moment of Crisis
As Matchar was checking the computer for flight timing and other details, he suddenly felt an intense, sharp blow to the back of his head, something he described as being struck by a heavy and sharp object. At that moment, clarity evaded him as he lost consciousness multiple times throughout the ordeal. It was during one of these instances that the gravity of his situation hit him — he was facing the possibility of death.
The Resolve to Fight
“I told myself: Smit, do something, you can’t die like this. I wouldn’t say I accepted death, but I knew I had to take action,” he recounted, reflecting on the urgency of the situation. When the door finally opened, the scene that greeted him was chaotic, with panic and screams surrounding him.
First Contact after Survival
When asked who he contacted first after he was safe, Matchar revealed it was his two-year-old son. He acknowledged the emotional weight of the experience, stating that the aftermath of the incident would remain with him forever. He recognised the bravery of his colleague who took control of the situation, affirming that he would never forget that act of heroism.
Gratitude for Support and Care
Matchar’s expression of thanks extended beyond the UAE; he also acknowledged Saudi Arabia for the care he received immediately after the incident. “The way I was looked after and the medical attention I received in the UAE from day one is something I will never forget,” he remarked, underlining the impact of national support during such a critical time.