Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], October 1 (ANI): Celebrations were held outside Indian Captain Smit Machchhar's residence in Mumbai on Thursday, with friends and family members gathering to honour the pilot and hail him as a 'real hero' following his role in averting a major mid-air tragedy involving a flydubai flight.

People gathered outside Machchhar's residence carrying the Indian national flag and his photographs. Supporters were seen saluting and raising slogans in his praise as they expressed admiration for the Indian captain.

The gathering comes after Machchhar received appreciation from the country's top leadership for his actions during the emergency aboard the flydubai flight.

President Droupadi Murmu said the nation was proud of Machchhar and praised his 'heroic courage and incredible presence of mind' during the incident.

'The nation is proud of Captain Smit Machchhar. His heroic courage and incredible presence of mind have deeply touched us all,' Murmu said in a post on X.

She said that despite being seriously injured in a moment of grave peril, Machchhar remained determined to protect the lives of others.

'His bravery and quick response helped prevent a major tragedy and saved many precious lives,' she said, while saluting his spirit and praying for his speedy recovery.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also praised Machchhar, describing him as a hero and highlighting his courage despite sustaining serious injuries.

'Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO,' Modi said in a post on X, adding that his valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a major tragedy. He also wished Machchhar a speedy recovery, renewed strength and good health.

Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu praised Machchhar's bravery following the cockpit incident and said that people across the world were proud of the Indian captain.Machchhar's actions came after a serious cockpit incident aboard flydubai flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The Indian captain sustained injuries during the incident but remained involved in efforts to ensure the safety of those aboard the aircraft. The flight was subsequently diverted and made an emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.

The incident triggered widespread appreciation for Machchhar, with leaders and public figures highlighting his courage, presence of mind and commitment to passenger safety. (ANI)