Captain Smit Machchhar, the pilot of a flydubai flight who was seriously injured during an attempted attack in the cockpit, is showing steady signs of recovery, according to an update from the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi.

The incident occurred on September 30 aboard flight FZ1073, which was en route from Dubai to Tel Aviv with 174 passengers and crew on board. The co-pilot allegedly assaulted Captain Machchhar with a crash axe while in the cockpit, an act the UAE Attorney General has characterized as an attempted terrorist attack.

Despite suffering severe injuries, including deep cuts to his head and left hand, Captain Machchhar was able to open the cockpit door, enabling other crew members and passengers to intervene and prevent a potentially catastrophic outcome. A passenger on the flight, Dr. Shota Musaev, a dentist, provided first aid by applying pressure and ice to the pilot’s wounds during the flight, which was diverted to Saudi Arabia.

The Indian Embassy stated that it remains in close contact with the pilot’s family, medical professionals, and local authorities, offering all necessary support. The embassy expressed gratitude for the widespread prayers and wishes for Captain Machchhar’s continued recovery.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident and the motives behind the co-pilot’s actions. Meanwhile, Captain Machchhar’s condition is described as improving, reflecting a positive step forward after the serious injuries sustained during the mid-flight attack.