Mysuru, October 21: An elaborate cake installation honouring Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for reportedly protecting 174 passengers during an alleged mid-air cockpit attack has become a notable exhibit at the Mysuru Dasara celebrations, bringing a contemporary aviation incident into a festival traditionally associated with Karnataka’s royal and cultural heritage.
The exhibition features an artistic depiction of Machchhar’s reported actions aboard a flydubai aircraft, where his co-pilot allegedly attacked him during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv.
According to the account accompanying the tribute, the incident occurred aboard Flight FZ1073 when the co-pilot allegedly stabbed Machchhar, causing the aircraft to descend nearly 14,000 feet within 30 seconds.
Despite sustaining serious injuries, Machchhar reportedly managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers, crew members and off-duty pilots to intervene and restrain the alleged attacker.
Two other pilots travelling aboard the aircraft subsequently took control and landed it safely in Saudi Arabia, according to the account.
The cake exhibition presents the reported incident as an example of courage under extreme circumstances. Organisers included the installation among displays depicting historical figures, architectural landmarks and wildlife.
Other exhibits recreate the architectural features of Jagmohan Palace and commemorate Maharani Kempananjammani, whose contributions to women’s education form part of Karnataka’s social history. Cakes representing various birds and animals also feature in the exhibition.
The display combines historical subjects with contemporary events, reflecting the range of themes presented during the Dasara festivities.
Machchhar, who was born in Mumbai, has more than 13 years of commercial aviation experience and over 9,000 flying hours on Boeing 737 aircraft. He previously worked with SpiceJet before joining flydubai.
The account states that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump praised the pilot following the incident.
After receiving medical treatment in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, Machchhar reportedly shared recovery updates indicating that he was healing and hoped to resume flying.
The Mysuru exhibition places his reported experience alongside Karnataka’s historical and cultural displays, using cake art to commemorate an aviation incident that organisers say demonstrated exceptional courage.
