Suvendu Adhikari praises pilot Captain Machchhar, seeks approval for flying training institute in Kolkata's Behala

PTI, Oct 5, 2026, Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Monday praised flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his role in thwarting his co-pilot’s alleged attempt to crash an Israel-bound flight and sought the Centre's help to set up a flying training institute in the state to produce global-standard pilots.

Speaking at an MoU-signing ceremony for the UDAN scheme and development of new airports in the state, Adhikari said, "Every pilot in India loves the country. A few days ago, Captain Machchhar showed great courage and saved the lives of many innocent people. I have requested that pilots like him should be trained in West Bengal."

Adhikari said he had requested the Centre to allow the setting up of a flying training institute in Behala and expressed hope that approval for the project would be granted soon. Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu was also present at the ceremony. Adhikari requested Naidu to visit Behala and approve the proposed flying training institute.

"You (Naidu) please visit Behala and quickly give it (flying institute) your approval. Each and every pilot of Bharat is a patriot. A few days ago, the way our pilot Captain Machchhar showed his courage and presence of mind and saved so many lives is really inspiring. You train the young generations to be our future pilots and serve not only the country but the entire world," Adhikari said.

The chief minister had earlier sought greater air connectivity from West Bengal, including links between Andal Airport and various parts of the country as well as direct flights connecting Kolkata with the UK and other European countries.

Meanwhile, Union Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu said during the event that four new airports will be developed in West Bengal over the next two years. The four airports will come up at Charra in Purulia, Kalaikunda in Paschim Medinipur, Balurghat in Dakshin Dinajpur and Hasimara in Alipurduar, he said.

Naidu said Rs 29,000 crore would be spent under the UDAN scheme in West Bengal over the next 10 years. "I would also request the West Bengal government to frame a new civil aviation policy to attract investors," he said.