Modi said Machchhar's actions had made India proud and revealed that he had spoken with the captain's family while he received treatment.

"Smit’s bravery fills every Indian with a sense of pride. Today, I also spoke with his father, Bhuvendra Bhai, his mother, Geeta Ben, and his wife Sonal. His treatment is currently underway. Today, the entire world is proud of him. I appeal to my fellow citizens to pray for Smit’s long life and good health, and to honour our brother Smit, who has brought immense pride to India," he said.

The incident occurred aboard Flydubai Flight FZ1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv with around 170 people , the majority of them Israeli, on board.

Tabuk Airport confirmed that the aircraft requested and made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. Flydubai said there had been an "altercation" on the flight deck.

"The aircraft was successfully secured by on-duty flydubai crew travelling on the flight, who diverted and landed the aircraft safely at Tabuk Airport (TUU). All passengers and crew are safe and accounted for," the airline said.

Flydubai also urged people to "refrain from premature speculation while authorities gather the facts."

The airline temporarily suspended all Dubai-Tel Aviv flights following the incident.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that the co-pilot had stabbed the pilot and "apparently attempted to crash the plane".

Netanyahu credited Machchhar with helping to stop the incident, saying he "fought back, resisted, opened the cockpit door, and enabled passengers and crew to overpower the attacker".

Dentist Dr Shota Musayev was praised for providing first aid to the injured captain, potentially saving his life.

US President Donald Trump also claimed Netanyahu had told him about Israeli "plumber" Yaniv Hayoun's role in pulling the attacker away and grabbing the controls after watching the television programme "Air Disasters".